Hie Shrine
Visit one of the most highly revered places of worship in TokyoSanno Matsuri, one of the three major Shinto festivals in Tokyo – along with Fukagawa Matsuri and Kanda Matsuri – takes place at this shrine every year on June 15 because it houses the guardian deity of the city. The god of marriage is said to be enshrined here as well, which is perhaps why wedding ceremonies conducted solemnly according to Shinto rites are often held here. There are also a large number of torii gates in Hie, similar to Fushimi Inari in Kyoto, which explains this location’s popularity as a prime photography spot among tourists.
1. While most shrines are guarded by lion-dogs or foxes, the monkey is the chosen emissary of the shrine’s deity.
2. Bamboo, gravel and stone create a clean, serene ambience around the shrine.
3. This beautifully decorated building stores many treasures belonging to the Tokugawa family, including a number of antique swords.
4. The juxtaposition of this traditional torii (gate) against modern skyscrapers offers an interesting backdrop for photos.
5. The Hie Shrine hosts one of Tokyo's three biggest festivals, the Sanno Matsuri, including a parade that winds through the city every even-numbered year.
