Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Hiyoshi Taisha Shrine is an ancient shrine located in Sakamoto, Otsu City, Shiga Prefecture, at the foot of Mount Hiei. Since ancient times, it has been worshipped as the guardian shrine of Mount Hiei (Enryaku-ji Temple), and enshrines the mountain god "Oyamakui-no-kami" as its main deity. It is the head shrine of the "Hiyoshi, Hie, Sanno" group of shrines throughout the country, and is notable for its unique shrine building style, "Hiyoshi-zukuri," and for retaining a strong history of Shinto-Buddhism syncretism (Sanno faith).
The temple grounds are lush with greenery, lined with vermilion torii gates, tower gates, and old shrine buildings, and is known as a famous spot for its cherry blossoms in spring and autumn foliage. The quiet atmosphere where history and nature blend in harmony is appealing, and it is a spot that many people visit in combination with a visit to Mount Hiei or sightseeing in Otsu.
Highlights
- Shrine buildings (Higashi-Hongu, Nishi-Hongu, etc.): The buildings retain the characteristics of Hiyoshi-zukuri architecture and are beautifully painted in vermilion, allowing you to experience the atmosphere of ancient architecture up close. Some buildings have been designated as Important Cultural Properties.
- Romon Gate (Zuishinmon Gate) and Torii Gate: The imposing Romon Gate at the entrance to the temple grounds and the row of torii gates make great photographs.
- Sacred and ancient trees: There are large, ancient trees within the grounds, creating a majestic atmosphere. Many people visit as a power spot.
- Seasonal scenery: Cherry blossoms in spring, fresh greenery in early summer, and beautiful autumn leaves allow you to enjoy the four seasons while strolling around.
- Festivals and Events: Festivals are held throughout the year, and historic events such as the Sanno Festival are particularly worth seeing (it is recommended to check the dates of events in advance).
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Train + Walking: Approximately 10-20 minutes on foot from Keihan Hieizan Sakamoto Station or JR Sakamoto Station (the road from the station has slopes and stone steps).
- Bus: Take a local bus from Otsu Station or major JR or Keihan stations towards Sakamoto, then get off and walk to the shrine. The number of buses varies depending on the route, so please check the timetable in advance.
- By car: Accessible via national and prefectural roads from the Ritto IC or Otsu IC on the Meishin Expressway. There may be paid parking lots around the temple grounds, but they tend to fill up during peak hours, so we recommend arriving early.
- If you are heading towards Mount Hiei, it is also convenient to combine this route with the Sakamoto Cable (Mount Hiei Railway).
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Short visit: 30-45 minutes (visiting the main shrine and taking a quick tour of the main sights within the temple grounds)
- A leisurely stroll: 1-2 hours (including a thorough look around the temple grounds, taking photos, and strolling around the surrounding area)
- Combine with Mt. Hiei and nearby historical sites: Half a day to a full day
Nearby spots
- Mount Hiei, Enryaku-ji Temple: A religious historic site on Mount Hiei that is closely related to Hiyoshi Taisha Shrine. Climbing is possible via cable car.
- Sakamoto Townscape: A strolling area that retains a historical atmosphere, including an old temple town and the remains of samurai residences.
- Mii-dera Temple (Onjo-ji Temple) and the Lake Biwa area: It is recommended to combine this with other tourist spots in Otsu City.
- Crowds: The shrine gets crowded during New Year's visits, festivals, and long weekends. The stairs and approach roads are particularly narrow in places, so please allow plenty of time when visiting during busy times.
- Clothing and footing: The temple grounds have many stone steps and slopes, which can become slippery on rainy days. We recommend wearing comfortable shoes. Be aware that the ground may freeze in winter.
- Worship Manners: Please observe basic worship manners, such as bowing once before passing through the torii gate, purifying yourself at the water basin, bowing twice, clapping twice, and bowing once more at the worship hall. Photography may be restricted inside the shrine or during festivals, so please follow any warning signs.
- Check public information: The treasure hall, special exhibitions, event dates, opening and closing times, and admission fees are subject to change. It's a good idea to check the latest information on the official website or on-site guides before heading out.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
This concludes our overview and tourist information for Hiyoshi Taisha Shrine. If you take the time to explore the surrounding area as well, you will be able to fully enjoy the history of Mount Hiei and the atmosphere of Otsu.
