The Hieizan Taisha, more commonly known as Hie Shrine, is a Shinto shrine located in Hikone City, Shiga Prefecture. It was built in 729 to honor Emperor Shōmu, who visited the area and performed rites of passage for the emperor's son, Yamato no Osarabi. The shrine complex spans several hills and features multiple shrines dedicated to different kami.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Susanoo-no-Kami
- Kami enshrined
- Susanoo, the Storm God
- Coordinates
- 35.0366962, 135.7615926
Visitor tip
To fully appreciate the shrine's significance, visit at dawn or dusk when the sunlight casting through the latticework of the shrine's gates creates stunning shadows and illuminates the surrounding landscape.
Cultural notes
The Hie Shrine is famous for its association with Emperor Shōmu, who is said to have performed rituals to ensure his son's success in life. The shrine also hosts the annual Hie Matsuri festival in June, which features traditional dances, music, and games.
Historical note
The shrine was rebuilt after a fire in 1616 during the Edo period.