Hie Shrine

Overview

Hie Shrine is a shrine located in Toyama City, Toyama Prefecture, affectionately known as "Sanno-san" by the local people. While its founding year is unknown, it is said that it was originally located in Harihara, Shinagawa District, Etchu Province, before being moved to its current location in Toyama City in 1335 (Kenmu 2) to avoid the turmoil of the Northern and Southern Courts period. After 1367 (Shohei 22), it was relocated to the present site of Toyama Castle ruins, and in 1587 (Tensho 15), when Maeda Toshinaga entered Toyama Castle, it was moved to its current location. Hie Shrine was designated as the guardian shrine of the Toyama Maeda clan, and new shrine grounds and buildings were donated. In 1873 (Meiji 6), it was classified as a village shrine (gosha), and in 1875 (Meiji 8), it incorporated Kitashinmei-sha Shrine (dedicated to Amaterasu Omikami) and Nakashinmei-sha Shrine (dedicated to Toyouke Omikami). In 1899 (Meiji 32), it was moved to the Toyama Castle ruins and promoted to a prefectural shrine (kensha), but the shrine building burned down in a great fire on August 12th of the same year. A temporary shrine was built at the current location, and the main hall and prayer hall were rebuilt. In the 1945 (Showa 20) Toyama air raid, all shrine buildings were destroyed, but the sacred objects survived. After the war, a temporary prayer hall was built, and the main hall was reconstructed in 1953 (Showa 28). In 1967 (Showa 42), the prayer hall was reinforced with steel, and in 1968 (Showa 43), it was added to the Betsuhyo Jinja (separate registry) of the Jinja Honcho (Association of Shinto Shrines). Today, the "Sanno Matsuri," Toyama Prefecture's largest festival, is held annually from May 31st to June 2nd, attracting many visitors. The festival features a mikoshi procession (portable shrine parade), food stalls, and games, creating a lively atmosphere. Hie Shrine is also popular as a power spot, attracting many visitors for worship. On the grounds, there are statues of monkeys, cats, and chickens, representing deities said to protect health. Furthermore, Hie Shrine is conveniently located near Toyama Castle ruins and Toyama Station. When visiting Toyama, be sure to visit Hie Shrine.