Mito Hachimangū

What it is

• Founded in 1592 by Satake Yoshinobu to enshrine the three Hachiman deities.
• Served as the general guardian shrine for the entire Mito region.
• Designated as one of the 100 Landscapes of Ibaraki.
• Known as a guardian site for people born in Dog and Boar zodiac years.

What to see

• The main hall built in 1598 is a National Important Cultural Property.
• A massive Ohatsuki Ginkgo tree designated as a National Natural Monument.
• Traditional architecture restored to its historical appearance in 1998.

When to go

• The annual grand festival is held every year on April 15th.
• Visit during the Mito Hydrangea Festival to see blooms on the grounds.

Notes written by Japan Gems from facts in Japanese Wikipedia.