Located in the city of Nagahama, Shiga Prefecture, Hie Shrine is one of Japan's oldest and most famous Shinto shrines. Dedicated to the sun goddess Amaterasu, it is believed that the shrine was established during the Soga period (c. 593-645 CE). The shrine complex features a unique blend of ancient and modern architecture, including the iconic Hie Torii gate and the beautiful San-no-miya Hie Shrine building.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Amaterasu
- Kami enshrined
- Amaterasu
- Coordinates
- 35.0314706, 135.7461084
Visitor tip
To avoid long wait times, consider visiting during weekdays or early in the morning. The shrine offers a convenient entrance on the north side for visitors who want to avoid the main torii gate.
Cultural notes
As one of Japan's most important shrines dedicated to Amaterasu, Hie Shrine plays a significant role in Shinto mythology and is often visited during festivals such as the Sanja Matsuri. The shrine's unique architectural style reflects its long history, with elements from various periods including the Heian, Kamakura, and Edo eras.
Historical note
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