Enchanting melodies and vibrant hues paint Asahikawa’s night sky
Basic Information
Hie Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Chiyoda, Tokyo, Japan. It is dedicated to Ōyamakui-no-kami, the god of mountains and agriculture.
- Address: 2-10-5 Nagatacho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 100-0014
- Phone Number: 03-3581-2441
- Access: 3-minute walk from Tameike-sanno Station on the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line, or a 7-minute walk from Kokkai-gijidomae Station on the Marunouchi Line.
- Festival Days: June 7-17, 2024
Main Events and Attractions of the Festival
The Hie Shrine Festival is one of Tokyo’s most famous and popular festivals, attracting over 2 million visitors each year. The festival features a variety of events and attractions, including:
Mikoshi Procession
The highlight of the festival is the mikoshi procession, which takes place on June 15th. Two mikoshi (portable shrines) are carried through the streets of Chiyoda by teams of people, accompanied by music and dancing. The procession is a colorful and lively spectacle, and it’s a great opportunity to experience Japanese culture and tradition.
Kagura Performances
Kagura is a traditional Japanese dance and music performance that is often performed at Shinto shrines. During the Hie Shrine Festival, kagura performances are held throughout the day, and visitors can enjoy the beautiful costumes and graceful movements of the dancers.
Food Stalls
No Japanese festival is complete without food stalls, and the Hie Shrine Festival is no exception. Visitors can enjoy a variety of delicious Japanese foods, including yakitori (grilled chicken skewers), takoyaki (octopus balls), and kakigori (shaved ice with syrup).
Bon Odori Dancing
Bon Odori is a traditional Japanese folk dance that is performed during the Obon festival, which takes place in August. During the Hie Shrine Festival, Bon Odori dancing is held on the evenings of June 14th and 15th. Visitors can join in the dancing or simply enjoy watching the performances.
Blessings and Deities
Hie Shrine is dedicated to Ōyamakui-no-kami, the god of mountains and agriculture. He is said to bring blessings of good harvests, prosperity, and protection from natural disasters.
- Ōyamakui-no-kami: God of mountains and agriculture
- Blessings: Good harvests, prosperity, protection from natural disasters
Origin and History
The origins of Hie Shrine are unclear, but it is believed to have been founded in the 6th century. The shrine was originally located on Mount Hiei, but it was moved to its current location in Chiyoda in 1654.
- Founded: 6th century
- Original location: Mount Hiei
- Current location: Chiyoda
Tips and Notes for Visitors
Here are some tips and notes for visitors to Hie Shrine:
- Hours: The shrine is open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
- Admission: Admission to the shrine is free.
- Dress code: There is no specific dress code, but visitors are expected to dress respectfully.
- Photography: Photography is allowed inside the shrine, but please be respectful of other visitors.
- Events: The Hie Shrine Festival is held annually in June. The festival features a variety of events, including a mikoshi procession, kagura performances, and food stalls.
Parking Information
There is no parking lot at Hie Shrine. Visitors are advised to use public transportation or park in a nearby parking garage.
- Public transportation: Hie Shrine is a 3-minute walk from Tameike-sanno Station on the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line, or a 7-minute walk from Kokkai-gijidomae Station on the Marunouchi Line.
- Parking garages: There are several parking garages near Hie Shrine. The closest one is the Tameike Parking Garage, which is located a 2-minute walk from the shrine.
Popular Stalls and Food Carts in Recent Years
| Type of Stall | Description |
|---|---|
| Takoyaki | A staple at Japanese festivals. Characterized by a crispy outside and a creamy inside. |
| Jaga Butter | A simple yet popular snack of hot potatoes lavishly topped with melted butter. |
| Baby Castella | Small castella cakes, sweet and fluffy treats enjoyed by children and adults alike. |
| Grilled Ayu with Salt | Fresh ayu fish grilled whole with salt, a savory taste of Japanese summer. |
| Shaapin | A unique gourmet item influenced by foreign cuisine, with a chewy skin wrapping the filling. |
| Okonomiyaki | A Japanese grilled dish where you often choose your own ingredients for a personalized flavor. |
| Cotton Candy | A fluffy, sweet snack that’s extremely popular with children. |
| Chocolate Banana | A banana coated in chocolate, a fun and visually appealing dessert. |
| Kushiyaki | Various types of ingredients skewered and grilled, an easy-to-enjoy snack. |
| Yakisoba | Fried noodles mixed with a special sauce, a fast food favorite in Japan. |
