Date Masamune ordered this shrine to be built as a home for the guardians who protected his castle. The shrine, built in 1607 atop a hill, is a fine example of the architecture of the Momoyama period (1573-1615). Its flamboyant porch and also the coffered ceiling decorated with 55 brightly coloured hand-painted flowers enhance the austere decor of gold and black lacquer. Every year, on 14 February, a procession of scantily-clad men and women files past on the way to burn New Year decorations in front of the Hachiman shrine.