Hachiman Yakumo Shrine took its present form following the merger of Hachiman Shrine and Yakumo Shrine (also known as Tenno-sama).The area surrounding the shrine is believed to have been the stronghold of the Yokoyama clan, one of the Musashi Seven Bands, a group of medieval warrior clans.Within the grounds stands Yokoyama Shrine, dedicated to Yokoyama (Ono) Yoshitaka, the clan’s ancestor.During the Edo period, the shrine attracted many worshippers as the guardian shrine of the post towns east of Yokaichi-juku, as well as Motoyokoyama Village.The grand festival of Yakumo Shrine, known as the “Lower Festival,” has long been cherished as a lively celebration featuring floats and portable shrines parading through the streets.Together with the “Upper Festival,” the grand festival of Taga Shrine—Hachioji’s main guardian shrine in former Motohongo Town—these two festivals are said to have formed the foundation of what is now the Hachioji Festival.