Written by Jane Pipkin
A small Shinto shrine in Shuzenji known for bringing protection to children and helping people find love.
What is Hie Shrine?
Originally for the guardian deity of Shuzenji Temple, Hie Shrine was separated from Buddhism in the early Meiji period. Now purely a Shinto shrine, it is a famous praying spot for those seeking protection for their children, as well as those looking for love.
On the grounds of the shrine, there is a 25-meter tall ichii oak tree. It is a designated prefectural natural monument, given its rarity in the area. Near to that tree, there are also two cedar trees, known as the “Couple Cedars”, since they are stuck together. They are said to be over 800 years old.
If you are wanting to fulfill a wish, you can buy an amulet to help. Handmade using locally produced straw, these amulets are quite hard to get your hands on — since the Hie Shrine office is only open 4 days a week.
Make a wish by writing on an ema (small wooden plaque) and hanging it up near the shrine. You can purchase them, using coins, at the nearby vending machine. In the place where all the ema are hanging, you can also see “Tamayori Flowers” and red arrows, which honor the legend of Tamayori-hime.
How to get there
Hie Shrine is 9 minutes away, by bus, from Shuzenji Station. Take the bus to Shuzenji Onsen and get off the stop with the same name. From there, it is a 1-minute walk. The bus ride costs ¥260.
