大将軍神社

Kyoto’s energy pulsed around Daishogun Hachi Shrine. Isn’t it strange to think of a place built to repel evil? Daishogun Hachi Shrine was established in 794. This was the very year Kyoto became Japan’s capital. It was placed in the northwest corner of the Imperial Palace. Why the northwest? People believed evil spirits emanated from that direction, based on the principles of onmyodo. Onmyodo was a system of divination rooted in Taoist thought. It blended cosmology and the occult and held considerable influence in Japan’s political and military decisions. Daishogun Hachi Shrine is dedicated to Daishogun, the god of the stars. He presided over directions according to onmyodo. “Hachi” means “eight” and refers to Daishogun’s eight children. These children, also deities of celestial bodies, are enshrined alongside their father. Inside the shrine’s Hotokuden Hall, eighty statues of Daishogun stand watch. Most depict him in armor, a fierce expression etched on his face. This reflects his title, which translates to “great general.” The second floor of Hotokuden Hall holds fascinating artifacts. These connect to geomancy rituals and the renowned court astrologer and diviner, Abe no Seimei, who lived from 921 to 1005. Daishogun Hachi Shrine stands as a testament to a time when the stars guided emperors and generals. It’s a fascinating glimpse into the beliefs that shaped ancient Kyoto.