Founded approximately 2,100 years ago at the foot of Mt. Hiei, Hiyoshi Taisha is the head shrine of the 3,800 Hiyoshi, Hie, and Sanno shrines throughout Japan. Because it lies northeast of the capital of the time, a direction traditionally associated with misfortune, it has long been revered as a shrine that protects the capital from evil and disaster. It is also worshipped as the guardian shrine of nearby Enryakuji Temple on Mt. Hiei. Its blessings include protection from misfortune associated with inauspicious directions and protection from adversity in life.
The grounds are divided into the East and West Main Shrine areas and contain nearly 40 shrines dedicated to various deities. Collectively, these deities are known as the Hiyoshi Okami. The main halls of both the East and West Main Shrines are designated National Treasures and feature the distinctive Hiyoshi-zukuri architectural style. Visitors can also see several buildings designated as Important Cultural Properties.
Monkey decorations are a common sight throughout Hiyoshi Taisha Shrine. Since ancient times, monkeys have been regarded as messengers of the deities and called masaru, meaning “divine monkey.” They have also served as symbols of protection from evil. The word masaru sounds like Japanese phrases meaning “evil departs” and “to prevail,” so the monkeys are believed to bring protection from inauspicious directions and adversity, as well as success in competitions and entrance examinations.
Some 3,000 maple trees grow throughout the grounds, making the shrine one of the Kansai region’s most popular fall foliage destinations. The best time to see the leaves is from mid-November to early December.
Various events take place each month, but the best known is the Sanno Festival, held to pray for peace throughout the country and abundant harvests. It begins on the first Sunday of March each year and continues for nearly a month and a half, through April 14. The festival reaches its climax on April 13 with the solemn and impressive Yomiya Otoshi Ritual.
Highlights
-
A historic shrine founded 2,100 years ago, known for protection from inauspicious directions and adversity.
-
Its symbol is the monkey, regarded as a messenger of the deities.
-
A well-known fall foliage destination in the Kansai region.
-
The Sanno Festival, held for a month and a half beginning in March, is an impressive event.
