The Outer Hall of Worship is a historic Shinto shrine located in the city of Hikone, Shiga Prefecture. The shrine's architecture reflects its origins as a humble wooden structure built during the Nara period (712-794 CE), with successive renovations and expansions taking place throughout the Heian and Kamakura periods. Today, the shrine is known for its striking vermilion torii gate and traditional Japanese garden.
- Religion
- shinto
- Kami enshrined
- Sennyu-kami
- Coordinates
- 34.9671448, 135.7728632
Visitor tip
To fully appreciate the shrine's architecture, approach from the eastern entrance, where you'll find a beautifully restored traditional Japanese garden.
Cultural notes
This shrine is connected to the legend of Minamoto no Yoshitsune, who was said to have sought refuge within its walls during his exile. The shrine also hosts an annual Festival of Light (Hikone Tanabata) in late July, where devotees light lanterns to pray for good fortune.
Historical note
The Outer Hall of Worship was originally built as a branch shrine dedicated to the deity Sennyu-kami during the Nara period.