Usa Jingu Shrine

Usa Jingu is a Shinto shrine located in Usa City, Oita Prefecture. It is considered one of Japan’s three great Hachiman shrines. Its three main sanctuary buildings are designated as National Treasures, reflecting its long history. As the head shrine of roughly 40,000 Hachiman shrines across Japan, it is a deeply significant sacred site. A monorail is also installed, allowing visitors of various needs to worship more easily. While many shrines follow the pattern of two bows, two claps, and one bow, Usa Jingu uses two bows, four claps, and one bow, so be mindful. This is the same worship style as Izumo Taisha. Within the grounds, there is a treasure hall that can be visited for 300 yen. The shrine is also said to be the birthplace of portable shrines (mikoshi), and because it is believed to bring strong competitive luck, the Katsumamori (victory amulet) is especially popular. Known as a place where visitors can receive various forms of spiritual power, it is popular with tourists not only from Japan but also from overseas. In Japan, it is a particularly popular sightseeing spot among women. Worship at Usa Shrine traditionally goes from the Upper Shrine (Jogu) to the Lower Shrine (Gegu), and visiting both is considered the proper form of worship. It is also famous as a shrine where the gods are said to still reside. Access to Usa Shrine is about 10 minutes by bus from Usa Station.