⛩️ Sanno Shrine, Hiyoshi Taisha

Hiyoshi Taisha, built about 2,100 years ago at the foot of Mount Hiei in Shiga Prefecture, is the head shrine of approximately 3,800 Hiyoshi, Hie, and Sanno shrines scattered throughout Japan. From the perspective of the ancient capital, Hiyoshi Taisha is located at the omote kimmon (northeast), and thus it is regarded as a shrine for warding off evil and preventing disasters in the capital. It is also worshipped as a guardian deity of the nearby Enryaku-ji temple on Mount Hiei. It is said that Hiyoshi Taisha is particularly effective in the aspect of "exorcism" to prevent calamities. Hiyoshi Taisha is divided into two areas: the East Main Shrine and the West Main Shrine. Within the shrine grounds, there are nearly 40 smaller shrines dedicated to various deities, all collectively referred to as "Hiyoshi Daijin." Additionally, both the main halls of the East and West Main Shrines are built in a unique architectural style known as Hiyoshi-zukuri and have been designated as national treasures. Visitors can also view other buildings that have been designated as important cultural properties. In Hiyoshi Taisha, monkey decorations can often be seen. Since ancient times, monkeys have been regarded as messengers of the gods and are referred to as "Shin'en" (神猿), symbolizing the expulsion of evil spirits. Due to the pronunciation (ma-sa-ru) being similar to phrases like "evil spirits leave" and "to win, to overcome," they are believed to bring about disaster prevention, victory, and blessings for success. The shrine grounds are home to about 3,000 maple trees, making it one of the top spots for viewing autumn foliage in the Kansai region. The best time to enjoy the fall colors is from mid-November to early December. Moreover, Hiyoshi Taisha hosts various festive events every month, the most famous of which is the "Sanno Matsuri," a festival praying for world peace and abundant harvests. This festival begins on the first Sunday of March and lasts until April 14, spanning nearly a month and a half. The climax of the festival is the "Yoi-miya Raku-sai Shingi" held on April 13, which features a solemn atmosphere worth witnessing.

Established over 2100 years ago, this historic shrine is said to be particularly effective in "exorcising evil" and "dispelling disasters." The monkey, regarded as a messenger of the gods, is the symbol of Hiyoshi Taisha and is believed to bring good fortune. It is a famous spot for viewing autumn leaves in the Kansai region. The "Sannō Matsuri," which lasts for a month and a half starting in March, is definitely worth seeing.