Togane Hiyoshi Shrine [Chiba]

【Togane Hiyoshi Shrine Summary】

Tōgane Hiyoshi Shrine was founded in 807 (the second year of the Tōhō era). According to the shrine’s tradition, its founding occurred when Saichō, during his pilgrimage through the eastern provinces, enshrined a branch spirit of the Hiyoshi Grand Shrine in Sakamoto, Ōmi Province, at Tokigamine (present-day Sannōdai Park). It was relocated to its current site in 1387 (the first year of the Kakkei era).

The principal deity enshrined here is Ōyamakui-no-Mikoto. Known for its blessings as a mountain deity, protector against misfortune, and bringer of good fortune and happiness, it enshrines the deities of Hiyoshi Taisha, the head shrine of all Hiyoshi and Hie Shrines (Sannō Shrines) nationwide.

【Togane Hiyoshi Shrine worshipper’s path】

The approach lined with magnificent giant cedar trees is truly splendid, and it is said that several of them are over 400 years old.

Many sacred trees stand tall, evoking a sense of long history. Walking down the tree-lined path leads you to the shrine.

【Togane Hiyoshi Shrine Temizuya】

Since the divine messenger of Sannō Shrine is a monkey, a cute monkey also sat enthroned at the Temizuya.

【Togane Hiyoshi Shrine worship hall】

The shrine hall is a single-bay nagare-zukuri style. While there are records of renovations in the early Edo period, I believe it has preserved its original construction from that time. Furthermore, the fact that the interior is open for public viewing as one would normally see it is very appealing.

Before the shrine hall, statues of the divine messengers, the “sacred monkeys,” stand solemnly on either side. Additionally, the shrine hall features a carved monkey holding a peach.

【Togane Hiyoshi Shrine Sacred Tree】

Sacred trees include the married cedar pair adorned with sacred ropes, with the largest cedar reaching approximately 40 meters in height and 5.3 meters in trunk circumference. These cedars are estimated to be about 400 years old.

【Otani Hachiman Shrine worship hall】

The entrance to Oya Hachiman Shrine is located along the approach to Tōgane Hiyoshi Shrine.

For about two or three minutes, I walk while wondering if there really is a shrine ahead.

【Otani Hachiman Shrine worship hall】

It is said to be a branch shrine of Shirahata Hachiman Shrine (in Yamato City), which enshrines three deities: Hondawake no Mikoto, Amaterasu Ōmikami, and Kasuga Ōkami. The exact year of its founding is unknown, but it is said that Minamoto no Yoritomo prayed for victory in battle here, and four of his retainers later visited to give thanks for the victory.

The shrine building was small, but a magnificent pair of guardian lion-dogs stood guard.

【Togane Hiyoshi Shrine GOSHUIN】

【Togane Hiyoshi Shrine Nearby attractions】

Tama Shrine, Ienoko Hachiman Shrine, Namikiri Fudo-in Temple

Tama Shrine [Chiba]

Ienoko Hachiman Shrine [Chiba]

Namikiri Fudōin Temple [Chiba]

【Togane Hiyoshi Shrine Access】

関連投稿(Related Posts):

Ienoko Hachiman Shrine [Chiba] Tama Shrine [Chiba] Namikiri Fudōin Temple [Chiba] Katori Jingu Shrine [Chiba]