Usa Shrine (Usa Jingū), in northern Oita, is the head shrine of the more than 40,000 Hachiman shrines throughout Japan, and one of the country’s most venerable and important Shinto sites. Founded in the eighth century, it enshrines Hachiman, the deified Emperor Ōjin and the deity of war and protection long revered by the imperial court and samurai. Set amid a tranquil precinct of ancient forest, ponds and vermilion bridges, its striking main halls are built in the distinctive ‘Hachiman-zukuri’ architectural style — a designated National Treasure — with brilliant orange-red buildings roofed in cypress bark. Uniquely, worshippers here bow twice, clap four times and bow again (rather than the usual two claps). Grand, historic and beautiful, especially with cherry blossom or wisteria in season, Usa Jingū is northern Oita’s foremost cultural site and a rewarding stop away from the coast.
🗓️ At a Glance
| Location | Usa, Oita |
| Hours | ~9:00–16:00 (grounds longer) |
| Admission | Free (treasure hall extra) |
| Time needed | 1–1.5 hours |
| Best time | Cherry blossom & wisteria seasons |
What to See
- The National Treasure Hachiman-zukuri main halls.
- Head shrine of Japan’s 40,000 Hachiman shrines.
- Ancient forest, ponds and vermilion bridges.
- The unusual ‘two bows, four claps’ worship style.
Combine Your Visit
- Combine with the Amanoseki fishing village in Usa.
- Pair with the Kunisaki Peninsula nearby.
- Read our Oita overview .
Getting There
- By train: JR to Usa Station, then a bus or taxi.
- By car: parking near the shrine in Usa.
Tips
Remember the unusual worship etiquette here — two bows, four claps, one bow — which differs from most Japanese shrines. Allow time to walk the peaceful forested precinct with its ponds and vermilion bridges, come in cherry-blossom or wisteria season for the prettiest setting, and combine it with the nearby Kunisaki Peninsula’s Buddhist heritage.
