🗺️ Chiji Hachiman Shrine知井八幡神社

Built in the 3rd year of Enkyu (1071), it is the main shrine of Chii no Sho village. The original site was located at Minamimura Kamiguchi on the opposite bank of the Yura River, but it was relocated to its current site due to landslides and flooding. The current main hall was rebuilt in the 4th year of Meiwa (1767). Its origins can be traced back to the 6th year of Wadō (713), when it is said that an eight-headed deer monster appeared in the village. After Kōga Saburō Kaneie successfully repelled the monster, a shrine was built at this location. The deities enshrined are Emperor Ōjin, Suwa Myōjin, and Chii Ichinomiya Myōjin. The entire grounds are designated as a "Cultural Property Preservation Area" by Kyoto Prefecture, and the main hall, built in the style of a three-bay shrine, is listed as a "Registered Cultural Property Designated by Kyoto Prefecture." Throughout the main hall, exquisite carvings of phoenixes, koi fish, lions, and flowers can be seen, making it one of the most representative shrine buildings in Tanba. During the "Chii Hachishin Shrine Annual Festival" held every October, gagaku music is performed, and a portable shrine parades through the village streets, praying for disaster prevention and family safety.

The main shrine of Chiji Kyomura. There is a local legend about the Yagukaku deer that repelled monsters. It dates back to the 6th year of Wado (713), with a long history. The intricately carved sculptures of the main hall are not to be missed. An annual festival is held every October.