A local Hiyoshi shrine in Gifu Prefecture, part of the network of shrines associated with the head Hiyoshi Taisha in Shiga Prefecture. Hiyoshi shrines are traditionally dedicated to mountain deities and serve as protectors of the local community.
- Denomination
- Hiyoshi
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Oyamakui no Kami
- Kami enshrined
- Oyamakui no Kami
- Coordinates
- 35.2096838, 136.7842001
Visitor tip
Look for the distinctive monkey motifs often found at Hiyoshi shrines, as monkeys are considered messengers of the mountain kami.
Cultural notes
Hiyoshi shrines are closely associated with mountain worship and the syncretic relationship between Shinto and Buddhism that developed around Mount Hiei. The monkey is considered sacred at these shrines.
Historical note
Hiyoshi shrines spread throughout Japan as branch shrines of the influential Hiyoshi Taisha near Kyoto, which served as the protector shrine of Enryaku-ji temple on Mount Hiei. These shrines became important centers for mountain worship and community protection.