Having been built about 2100 years ago at the foot of Mt.Hiei (Hieizan), it is the head shrine of 3,800 Hiyoshi, Hie, and Sanno shrines nationwide. Because it is located in the Omote-kimon (northeast) of the capital at that time, it is worshiped as an apotropaic magic against evil for the capital, a shrine that prevents disasters, and a guardian deity of the Hieizan Enryakuji Temple nearby. The benefits are "apotropaic magic" to prevent disasters related to directions and "apotropaic magic" to prevent disasters in life in advance.
In the precincts divided into two areas, Higashi-hongu and Nishi-hongu, there are nearly 40 shrines deifying various gods, and all gods are collectively called "Hiyoshi Okami". Likewise, the main shrine of both Higashi-hongu and Nishi-hongu has a special architectural style called Hie-zukuri and is designated as a national treasure, visitors may visit the buildings designated as important cultural properties there.
The noticeable thing in Hiyoshi Taisha is the decoration of monkeys. Since ancient times, monkeys have been called "Masaru" as a messenger of God and have been regarded as a symbol of apotropaic magic against evil. Because it also leads to the same pronunciation of "evil leaves" and "exceed",it is considered to bring benefits from apotropaic magic for directions,apotropaic magic against misfortune, praying for winning, and praying for success.
The Japanese maples (Momiji) of 3000 are planted in the precincts, and it is popular as one of the best spots for autumn leaves in the Kansai area as well. The best time to see them is from mid-November to early December.
Among the various events held every month, the most famous one is the "Sannosai" which prays for universal peace (Tenkataihei) and the huge harvest (Gokokuoujou). It starts on the first Sunday of March every year and lasts till April 14 for nearly a month and a half. The climax of the "Yoimiya-otoshi-shinji" held on April 13 is worth seeing, spectacular in a solemn atmosphere.
Highlights
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It is a historic shrine that was built 2100 years ago, and the benefits are "apotropaic magic for directions" and "apotropaic magic against misfortune".
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The symbol is a monkey which is considered as a messenger of God.
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It is a famous spot for autumn leaves in the Kansai area.
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The "Sannosai", which is held from March for a month and a half,is worth seeing such a spectacle.
