Deep within Tokyo’s bustling heart lies a sanctuary of serenity. This is Hie Shrine. It stands as a testament to centuries of history and spiritual significance.
Hie Shrine’s story stretches back to the Kamakura period. Legend says a man named Edo built a shrine for his residence’s guardian deity. This was on the grounds of what is now the Imperial Palace. Ota Dokan later erected Edo Castle in 1478. He also built a Sanno-Hie Shrine within the castle. It served as a guardian deity.
The Tokugawa clan deeply revered Hie Shrine. Ieyasu Tokugawa, the Shogun, made Edo Castle his residence. He worshipped Hie Shrine’s deity as the protector of Edo. Edo is the old name for Tokyo.
In 1607, the shrine moved. It went outside Edo Castle. This allowed the citizens of Edo to visit and worship there. A devastating fire destroyed Hie Shrine in 1657. Tokugawa Ietsuna rebuilt it in 1659 at its current location.
Before World War II, Hie Shrine was a First Class Government Shrine. It was a highly respected place of worship for Tokyo’s people. The enshrined deity is Oyamakui-no-kami. He is the god of Mount Hie in Shiga prefecture. The shrine derives its name from this deity. He is also known as Hie-no-kami.
The shrine buildings once boasted a Gongen-Zukuri style. Vermilion lacquer finished them. The Haiden hall of worship connected to the Honden inner sanctuary. These structures were so magnificent that they were designated National Treasures. Sadly, the shrine burned down during the bombing of Tokyo in 1945. The present buildings were constructed in 1958.
Hie Shrine is famous for the Sanno Festival. It is held annually around June 15. During the Edo period, the Tokugawa Shogun honored the Sanno Festival. Hie Shrine housed Edo’s guardian deity. Three sacred palanquins carrying three gods entered Edo Castle. The procession included 45 festival floats and performers.
Today, the Jinko Festival takes place every two years. The procession includes portable shrines and parishioners. It passes the Imperial Palace. The chief priest offers prayers for the Imperial family’s well-being. Hie Shrine is the only shrine with this privilege.
The west entrance offers a visual treat. A vivid tunnel of red torii gates awaits you. Also, Hie Shrine has escalators to help visitors climb the hill.
Hie Shrine stands as a silent witness. It has seen Tokyo’s evolution through centuries. It is a place for reverence and reflection. It offers a tranquil escape from the modern city.