Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Hie Shrine is a historic shrine located in Nagatacho, Chiyoda Ward, Tokyo, and is affectionately known as "Sanno-sama." The main deity is Oyamakui-no-kami, who has been worshipped since ancient times as the mountain god, praying for peace, bountiful harvests, and castle protection. During the Edo period, the shrine was deeply revered by the Tokugawa shogunate and played an important role as a shrine protecting Edo Castle, and even today, the shrine's prestigious status and belief in prosperity can be felt.
The shrine is attractive for its lush green grounds, vermilion torii gates, lion-dog statues, and old shrine buildings that remain in the middle of the city. It attracts a steady stream of worshippers throughout the year, and the Sanno Festival in June is particularly well-known as one of the three major festivals of Edo, with gorgeous portable shrines and large processions parading through the city center.
Highlights
- The large vermilion torii gate and approach to the shrine: The contrast between the vermilion torii gate, which stands out in the city, and the greenery makes for a great photo.
- Main hall and worship hall: A calm shrine building that exudes history. Please be quiet and respectful when praying.
- Sanno Festival (June): The Sanno Festival is famous for its Shinko Festival and grand procession. The surrounding area becomes very lively during the festival.
- Komainu statues and stone structures in the temple grounds: There are many historical structures scattered around the temple, such as an old water basin and stone lanterns.
- Prayers and Goshuin: Various prayers are available, including for love, protection from evil, and safe childbirth. Goshuin are also popular (please note the opening hours of the shrine office).
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Address: 2-10-5 Nagatacho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo
- Nearest station:
- Approximately 3-5 minutes walk from Tameike-Sanno Station on the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line and Namboku Line
- Approximately 7-10 minutes walk from Akasaka-mitsuke Station on the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line and Marunouchi Line
- Approximately 5-10 minutes walk from Nagatacho Station on the Tokyo Metro Yurakucho Line and Hanzomon Line
- If you are heading towards the National Diet Building, it is also within walking distance from Kokkai-gijidomae Station.
- By car: As it is in the city center, parking is often difficult in the surrounding area. We recommend using public transportation.
- Note: The temple grounds are relatively close to the station and are easily accessible, but there may be restrictions on traffic in the surrounding area during festivals and event days.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Visit only: 15 to 30 minutes
- Receive a goshuin (temple seal) and amulet, then take a leisurely stroll around the grounds: 30-60 minutes
- During events such as the Sanno Festival, it may take several hours.
Nearby spots
- National Diet Building, House of Representatives, House of Councillors (walking distance): Take a stroll through the center of politics.
- Akasaka Sacas/TBS Broadcasting Center (Akasaka): Enjoy shopping and dining.
- Imperial Palace Outer Gardens and Hibiya Park: Green spaces in the city center accessible on foot or a short subway ride.
- Tokyo Midtown (Roppongi): Art, shopping, and gourmet spots.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Crowds: The Sanno Festival in June is very crowded. If you are going to watch the festival, please be aware of traffic restrictions and finding a good spot. The number of visitors increases on weekend mornings and on public holidays.
- Worship etiquette: Please purify yourself with the water basin and observe the proper etiquette of two bows, two claps, and one bow. Photography is permitted within the grounds, but may be prohibited inside the main hall (during religious ceremonies, etc.), so please follow the signs.
- Office hours: The office for receiving goshuin and omamori charms may not be open all day. We recommend checking the opening hours before visiting.
- Clothing and cold weather gear: The temple grounds are mostly outdoors. Please be aware that the approach and stairs can be slippery in winter.
- Respect: Shrines are religious facilities. Please refrain from talking loudly, eating, drinking, or smoking within the grounds.
(Additional Information) If you are planning to visit during a worship or festival, please check the latest information on the official website or shrine office in advance.
