[2025 Otsu Attraction] Travel Guide for Hiyoshi Taisha (Updated May)

Hiyoshi Taisha Shrine is an ancient shrine located in Otsu City, Shiga Prefecture. It enshrines the guardian deity of Shiga, Hiyoshi God, and its themes include agriculture, harvest, and safety. As one of the oldest shrines in Japan, Hiyoshi Taisha boasts magnificent red and gold buildings surrounded by dense forests, creating a serene atmosphere. Various traditional festivals are held annually, attracting visitors to experience its cultural charm firsthand. Whether for pilgrimage or sightseeing, it is a great place to visit. 📍Address: 〒520-0113 Shiga Prefecture, Otsu City, Sakamoto 5-chome 1-1 🕰️Business Hours: 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM

Lake Biwa is a favorite cherry blossom spot for seasoned travelers to Japan. Compared to Kyoto, there are fewer people here, and there are many attractions around the lake that are perfect for in-depth travel. To get to Lake Biwa, you usually go to Otsu first, which is the capital of Shiga Prefecture and very close to Kyoto. From Kyoto Station, take the JR Biwako Line to Otsu Station, which takes about 10 minutes. Otsu has the third most historical sites and Buddha statues in Japan, after Nara and Kyoto. Here, the World Heritage Site "Enryaku-ji Temple" on Mount Hiei, the "Ishiyama-dera Temple" that inspired "The Tale of Genji," and the Sanno Shrine Hiyoshi Taisha are all must-see attractions. If you've been to the Rurikoin Temple in Kyoto but were put off by the crowds, you should definitely visit the Old Chikurin-in Temple next to the Hiyoshi Taisha Shrine in Otsu, which is just as beautiful. In addition, there are three islands in Lake Biwa, and Chikubu Island is the most worth visiting. In Takashima, there are two must-see places: the Torii Gate in the lake at Shirahige Shrine and the Metasequoia Avenue. About 500 metasequoia trees are planted along the Metasequoia Avenue, which is beautiful in all seasons and perfect for taking photos. Omihachiman is an ancient city on the shores of Lake Biwa, where you can feel the full Edo period Japanese style. Of course, food is also an important part of travel. When you come here, you must not miss Omi beef, one of the three major Wagyu beef in Japan. In addition to sightseeing and food, the Lake Biwa cruise is also worth a try. There are three Lake Biwa cruise itineraries: the Michigan cruise, the Chikubu Island cruise, and the Lake Biwa Island cruise. In addition to lake sightseeing, the Michigan cruise also offers live concerts and onboard dining, which is perfect for those who like lively activities. In addition, taking the cable car to the top of Mount Horai is also very special, and you can take stunning videos.

Date of photo: 2022.11.6 Spot: Hiyoshi Taisha Address: 5-1-1 Sakamoto, Otsu City, Shiga Prefecture 520-0113 Adults: 300 yen Parking fee: 500 yen Hiyoshi Taisha is a shrine located in Sakamoto, Otsu City, Shiga Prefecture. It is the head shrine of the 3,800 or so Hiyoshi, Hie, and Sanno shrines across the country. It is famous as a famous spot for maple leaves, and the fresh green leaves of the "green maples" and the autumn leaves in mid-November beautifully decorate the grounds. #Autumn leaves #Couple trip #Autumn leaves #Shiga Prefecture #Hiyoshi Taisha

#HiyoshiTaisha #Shiga There are several shrines called Hiyoshi Taisha throughout Japan, but the one in Shiga Prefecture is said to be the head shrine of all the Hiyoshi Taisha shrines in Japan. Originally written as Hiyoshi, it was called "Hiei," but at some point it started to be called "Hiyoshi." We went there around 5pm, so it was a little dark and creepy, but being in the mountains, I think it's a good place to enjoy the shrine in peace.

Hiyoshi Taisha Shrine in Otsu City, Shiga Prefecture I went there to see the autumn leaves at the nearby Kyu-Chikurin-in Temple, but I researched this famous shrine beforehand and decided to visit it because it was next to it. This area is lined with many shrines, and is also famous for its autumn leaves, and during the autumn leaves season, it is lit up. Hiyoshi Taisha Shrine 5-1-1 Sakamoto, Otsu City, Shiga Prefecture #Shrine

#Spring0yenTrip "Hiyoshi Taisha" in Otsu, Shiga is the head shrine of over 3,800 "Sanno-san" shrines across the country. In spring, the entire shrine grounds are covered in cherry blossoms, creating a spectacular view that looks like a cherry blossom viewing gift from the gods! The red tower gate and Shinkyo bridge are especially beautiful together with the cherry blossoms. The contrast between the historic buildings and the ephemeral cherry blossoms is irresistibly tasteful and makes for great photos! Walking along the stone pavement of the approach to the shrine and watching the quietly blooming cherry blossoms is a soothing moment that will help you forget the hustle and bustle of the city. Monkeys are said to be messengers of the gods, so you might even come across a monkey statue somewhere in the grounds! 📍Basic information (check the official website for the latest information) ✴︎Address: 5-1-1 Sakamoto, Otsu City, Shiga Prefecture ✴︎Access: 10 minutes on foot from Sakamoto Hieizanguchi Station on the Keihan Ishiyama Sakamoto Line ✴︎Fee: 300 yen admission fee (adults) ✴︎Opening hours: 9:00-16:30 (varies depending on the season) The best time to see the cherry blossoms is usually from late March to early April. The cherry blossoms that bloom in a quiet and sacred space are not flashy but have a beautiful, memorable beauty. If you visit the Mt. Hiei area in spring, be sure to add Hiyoshi Taisha Shrine to your cherry blossom viewing course!

📍 Hiyoshi Taisha Shrine Hiyoshi Taisha, located at the foot of Mount Hiei in Otsu, Shiga Prefecture, is the head shrine of approximately 3,800 Hiyoshi, Hie, and Sanno shrines across Japan. ⭐️ History & Significance Founded around 2,100 years ago during the 7th year of Emperor Sujin’s reign (90 BCE), Hiyoshi Taisha has long been revered as a guardian against misfortune and calamity. During the relocation of the capital to Heian-kyo (Kyoto), it was designated as a protector of the city’s northeastern kimon (demon gate), believed to ward off evil spirits. ⭐️ Spiritual Importance Since the founding of Enryaku-ji Temple on Mount Hiei by the monk Saicho, Hiyoshi Taisha has also been worshiped as the guardian shrine of the Tendai Buddhist sect. The shrine complex consists of around 40 smaller shrines, including the East Main Shrine (Higashi Hongu) and West Main Shrine (Nishi Hongu), collectively known as Hiyoshi Okami. ⭐️ Blessings & Benefits Hiyoshi Taisha is believed to offer divine protection for: ✅ Disaster prevention & protection ✅ Good fortune & warding off evil ✅ Successful relationships & matchmaking ✅ Family safety & harmony ✅ Business prosperity ⭐️ Seasonal Beauty The shrine is famous for its spectacular autumn foliage, with around 3,000 maple trees turning brilliant shades of red and gold, attracting many visitors in the fall. With its deep history, cultural significance, and breathtaking seasonal landscapes, Hiyoshi Taisha continues to be a cherished spiritual site in Japan. If you visit Shiga, be sure to experience the serene beauty and powerful energy of this historic shrine. #celebrateit

Winter break in Japan, 4-day itinerary! Experience authentic Japanese culture, don't miss it! 🌟🎉 / Japan is located in East Asia and has a long and rich history. 🗾🏯 From Mount Fuji 🗻 to the ancient streets of Kyoto 🏞️, the country exudes a unique island charm. Often referred to as the Land of Cherry Blossoms 🌸, Japan is a great place to explore. / 🎈Itinerary: DAY 1: 🛫 Arrive in Osaka - 🚗 Airport transfer - 🛏 Check in to a hotel in Kyoto Arrive in Japan with ease, enjoy a thoughtful airport transfer, check in to a comfortable hotel, and get ready for an exciting trip! DAY 2: Arashiyama - Sagano Scenic Railway - Kiyomizu-dera Temple - Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka - Yasaka Shrine - Hanamikoji Street Travel through the greenery of Arashiyama, take a scenic train ride, and experience the fusion of nature and history. Visit the tranquility of Kiyomizu-dera Temple, savor the charm of the ancient streets, feel the mystery of the shrine, and enjoy the romance of the ancient capital at night. DAY 3: Kyū Chikurin-in Garden - Enryaku-ji Temple - Hiyoshi Taisha Shrine - Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine Experience the exquisite Japanese garden at Kyū Chikurin-in, the Zen atmosphere at Enryaku-ji Temple, and pray for your journey at Hiyoshi Taisha Shrine. Finally, stroll through the thousands of torii gates at Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine, each step is a spiritual cleansing. DAY 4: 🚗 Private transfer - ✈ Kansai International Airport End your wonderful trip to Kyoto with a private transfer to Kansai International Airport, and return home with fond memories. / Must-see attractions: 🚂 Sagano Scenic Railway: Travel along the Hozu River, accompanied by cherry blossoms, and enjoy the spring scenery. ⛩️ Kiyomizu-dera Temple: A tranquil ancient temple surrounded by greenery. Enjoy cherry blossoms in spring and maple leaves in autumn, both seasons are charming. 🌸 Arashiyama: Cherry blossoms and maple leaves dance together, the poetic Togetsukyo Bridge by the Katsura River, and the Zen temples and shrines are thought-provoking. / Travel essentials: 🧳 Don't forget to bring these things when you go to Japan! 📞 SIM card, convenient for contact, no fear of getting lost. 🔌 Plug adapter, Japan has a different voltage, this is a must-have. 🪪 Passport, visa, driver's license, complete documents, worry-free travel. 👚 If you go to Japan in January, bring a thick coat and thermal underwear, don't get cold. 🔋 Charger, power bank, a charged phone is reassuring. 💊 Common medicine and some first aid supplies, just in case. / 🎉 I hope this guide will help you have a more exciting trip to Japan and enjoy your time in the Land of Cherry Blossoms! 🎉

Hiyoshi Taisha Shrine, located at the foot of Mt. Hiei in Shiga Prefecture, is a scenic spot where the grounds are colored with fiery autumn leaves in autumn. The vast grounds are dotted with vermilion shrine buildings and stone bridges, and the contrast with the autumn leaves makes for a great photo spot! The view from the approach to the shrine and the foot of Mt. Hachioji is especially beautiful, like a painting. In a space enveloped in silence, you can enjoy a relaxing time while gazing at the colorful autumn leaves. At Hiyoshi Taisha Shrine, you can experience the charm of a historic shrine and the natural beauty unique to autumn at the same time. Be sure to visit to see the autumn leaves! #domestictraveltrip #autumnleaves #mounthiei #hiyoshitaisha

Hiyoshi Taisha Shrine is the main shrine of more than 3,800 mountain kings in Japan. It is an important cultural property of Japan. It is located at the foot of Mount Hachioji in the Hiei Mountains. It is adjacent to the foothill starting point of the Mount Hiei East Ropeway. It is also the town in front of Enryakuji Temple in Hiei Mountain. 's patron saint. The shrine occupies a large area and is built along the mountain. There are tall maple trees on both sides of the main shrine of Nishimotogu Shrine. In late autumn, the red clouds look like fire, complementing traditional buildings such as torii gates and shrines, and the scenery is not inferior to any other in Kyoto. What’s even more rare about this famous spot for autumn viewing is that it’s relatively not too crowded. In addition to viewing the maples, the small bridges and flowing water created by the natural landscape are also a major feature of the shrine. There are two ticket checkpoints here. After buying the ticket, it is recommended that you keep it properly for inspection. It is very easy to get here. Take the Keihan Ishiyama Sakamoto Line to Sakamoto Hieizanguchi (terminal station) and walk for 6-8 minutes.

#100 Travel Style I went to see the autumn illumination of NAKED x Hiyoshi Taisha Shrine 😊 I don't know why, but it's a free NAKED spot ☺️ Definitely recommended ✨ It was a little early for the autumn leaves, but I was able to enjoy the autumn leaves with the NAKED "Autumn Leaves Light" 😊 ᥫᩣ ̖́- It was raining heavily that day (it stopped occasionally) and there were only about 5 people, so it was like a private rental 😍 The approach to Hiyoshi Taisha Shrine was lit up all the way, and the fantastic atmosphere was outstanding 🍁 It was a place I would like to go with a nice person 😊 The dandelion object was an experience-based system, and if you read the QR code with your smartphone and hold it over the dandelion, your name will be sent all over the world 😚 Of course it's free ᥫᩣ ̖́- It seems that they also lend out NAKED distance lanterns for free on sunny days. There were no rainy days😅♡……………Photo locationTitle: Autumn NAKED x Hiyoshi TaishaSpot name: Hiyoshi Taisha and its approachAddress: 5-1-1 Sakamoto, Otsu City, Shiga PrefectureOpening hours: 17:00~21:00 (illuminated)Tips for photography: If it rains, don't cancel your plans and enjoy the atmosphere to the fullest😊It creates a fantastical atmosphere that is different from usual. I would recommend going on a rainy day 😊 Note: On sunny days, they lend out "NAKED distance lanterns" for free. On rainy days, they don't lend them out 😅 Parking. Hiyoshi Taisha Shrine, Kyu-Chikurin-in Temple, Omiyagawa Tourist Parking Lot (all free) Only the Omiyagawa Tourist Parking Lot is 500m away 😊 It may be difficult to find, so I've included a map (listed on the last page) 5-21 Sakamoto, Otsu City, Shiga Prefecture #Hiyoshi Taisha Shrine #Naked #Naked Ink #Free Spot #Autumn Leaves Photo #Autumn Outing Record #Kansai Outing Spot #Shiga

#springsummer2024 #JapanAttractions #WorldCulturalHeritage #ImportantCulturalTreasures The head shrine of more than 3,800 Sanno-jinja shrines across the country, this is an ancient shrine that appears in the historical book "Kojiki". In addition to the main shrines of the National Treasures Higashi-Hongu and Nishi-Hongu, there are 21 shrines within the vast grounds, many of which are designated as important cultural properties. Among them are important cultural properties such as the mikoshi that was once used in the Sanno Festival, a regular festival held at Hiyoshi Taisha Shrine. The entire area is designated as a national historic site. The Hiyoshi Three Bridges, designated as an important cultural property, is built across the Omiya River that flows through the territory. It is renowned as one of the best places to see autumn leaves in Lake Country (another name for Shiga Prefecture). #Hiyayoshitaisha #AncientShrine #Must-visitAttractions

#fallishere Location: 5 Chome-1-1 Sakamoto, Otsu, Shiga 520-0113, Japan Hiyoshi Taisha（日吉大舍）, located in Otsu, Japan, is a Shinto shrine with a rich history dating back over 2,100 years. Established in the 4th century, it venerates the deity Hiyoshi Okami. The shrine gained prominence during the Heian period (794-1185) when it became associated with the powerful Minamoto clan. Hiyoshi Taisha played a strategic role in protecting Kyoto, serving as a spiritual guardian. Its unique feature is the Sanno-sai or "Hiyoshi Taisha Grand Festival," held every 12 years, attracting pilgrims and tourists alike. The vibrant celebrations include processions, traditional performances, and rituals, showcasing the deep cultural roots of the region. The shrine is set amidst scenic landscapes, adding to its allure. With its historical significance and cultural contributions, Hiyoshi Taisha stands as a testament to Japan's enduring spiritual heritage. #trip #2023travel #2023trip #2023travelwish #2023旅行願望 #timetotravel #tripblazers #historical #heritage #otsu #japan

#fallishere Location: 5 Chome-1-1 Sakamoto, Otsu, Shiga 520-0113, Japan Hiyoshi Taisha, located in Otsu, Japan, is a Shinto shrine renowned for its West and East sanctuaries. The West Sanctuary, also called the Higashi Shin'en, dates back to the Nara period (710-794) and is dedicated to Sanno Gongen, a deity associated with Mount Hiei. It features a distinctive bridge called Soribashi, adding to its serene ambiance. On the other hand, the East Sanctuary, or Nishi Shin'en, has a rich history tracing back to the Heian period (794-1185). This section venerates Hiyoshi Myojin, a deity believed to protect against disasters. Visitors are captivated by its picturesque surroundings, including the sacred Nagaoka-kyo Palace ruins. Together, these sanctuaries showcase a harmonious blend of nature and spirituality, inviting pilgrims and tourists alike to immerse themselves in the cultural and religious tapestry of Hiyoshi Taisha. #trip #2023travel #2023trip #2023travelwish #2023旅行願望 #timetotravel #tripblazers #historical #heritage #otsu #japan