Hie Shrine, Tokyo

Hie Shrine, located in Tokyo, is a Shinto shrine that annually hosts the Sannō Matsuri, one of the city's largest festivals, on June 15th. This shrine is alternatively referred to as Hiyoshi Sannō or Sannō-sha and has various other names associated with it. The principal deity revered at this shrine is Ōyamakui-no-kami. Conveniently, it's just a few minutes away from Akasaka-Mitsuke Station.

The exact founding date of Hie Shrine is uncertain. However, Tokugawa Ieyasu relocated it to the grounds of Edo Castle, and his son Tokugawa Hidetada moved it out in 1604 to make it more accessible to the people of Edo for worship. Unfortunately, the shrine's main hall (shaden) was destroyed in the Great Fire of Meireki in 1657 but was later reconstructed in its current location by Tokugawa Ietsuna in 1659. The shrine is situated southwest of the castle, aligning with the ura kimon direction as per onmyōdō practices.

From 1871 to 1946, Hie Shrine held the prestigious status of being officially designated as one of the Kanpei-taisha, signifying its rank as a government-supported shrine of the highest order. Unfortunately, during World War II, the shrine's main hall was once again lost due to bombings. The present structure that stands today was constructed in 1958.

Hie Shrine boasts a significant cultural heritage, including a National Treasure in the form of a sword. Additionally, it houses 14 Important Cultural Assets, comprising 13 swords and one naginata. This shrine is also a popular destination for Japanese families to visit during the Shichigosan coming-of-age festival.