Place of worship • 1521 Ajichō, Takamatsu, Kagawa 761-0130, Japan
Located in Anji, a port town in Takamatsu City, Sakura Hachiman Shrine is known as a filming location for the movie 'I Want to Cry in the Center of the World.' The impressive red bridge and long stone steps of the approach, through which the protagonist races on a motorcycle, attract many movie fans.
However, this shrine has more charm than just being a movie location. It is a prestigious Hachiman Shrine with a 1300-year history since the enshrinement of Princess Konohanasakuya-hime and the Hachiman deity in the Heian period. As the main shrine that expanded its parishioners to the region, it has attracted the faith of the whole Anji Peninsula.
The guardian dogs lining the approach, the buildings that were converted from the bell tower to the ablution pavilion during the Meiji period, and the 'tsutsuji' drum donated by Toyotomi Hideyoshi all evoke the weight of the times. In addition, the view of the islands of the Seto Inland Sea and the distant sight of Yashima are also wonderful.
Sakura Hachiman Shrine may be an inconspicuous shrine in a residential area at first glance, but its historical significance and beautiful scenery exceed imagination. Even visitors who come in search of a movie scene should be able to feel the atmosphere of the quiet ancient temple. Why not take your time and savor the experience of visiting the shrine?