By ando 
Hie Jinja, located in Nagatacho, Chiyoda Ward, at the heart of Tokyo, is an attractive place rich in history and mystery. It has long been affectionately known as “Sanno-sama” and is famous for the Sanno Matsuri, one of the three great festivals of Edo.
Basic Information: Official Name: Hie Jinja (Hie Shrine). Location: 2-10-5 Nagatacho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo. Main kami (deity) enshrined: Oyamakui-no-kami. Additional kami enshrined: Kuninotokotachi-no-kami, Izanami-no-kami, Tarashinakatsuhiko-no-mikoto. Access: Approximately 3 minutes walk from Akasaka Station Exit 2 (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line), or approximately 3 minutes walk from Tameike-Sanno Station Exit 7 (Tokyo Metro Namboku Line / Ginza Line), among other options.
History and Legends: A Jinja Connected to Ota Dokan and Tokugawa Ieyasu
The history of Hie Jinja is ancient, with records indicating it was enshrined in the residence of the Edo clan towards the end of the Heian period. The current jinja is said to have originated in 1478 (Bunmei 10) during the Muromachi period, when Ota Dokan invited the kami from Kawagoe Sanno-sha to be enshrined here during the construction of Edo Castle. Later, when Tokugawa Ieyasu made Edo Castle his residence, Hie Jinja came to be revered as the guardian jinja of Edo Castle and as the local patron kami of Edo.
After its main hall was destroyed in the Great Fire of Meireki in 1657, it was rebuilt on its current site by Tokugawa Ietsuna, the fourth shogun. This relocation marked another important turning point in the jinja’s history.
Divine Monkeys (Masaru) and a Power Spot for Matchmaking
The symbol of Hie Jinja is the “Masaru” (Divine Monkey) that guards the shrine buildings. Because the Japanese word for monkey, ‘saru’, can also be associated with ‘en’ (縁), meaning ‘ties’ or ‘relationships’, it is believed to bring benefits for good relationships. In recent years, it has gained popularity as a power spot for romantic success and matchmaking. Statues of these divine monkeys are placed throughout the jinja grounds, and their charming presence brings comfort to worshippers.
Tenka Matsuri, Sanno Matsuri: A Festival Where Edo Traditions Live On
Held every other June, the Sanno Matsuri is a grand festival also known as ‘Tenka Matsuri’ (Festival of the Realm). It is a traditional event that has continued since the early Edo period and received the patronage of the shogunate as the guardian of Edo Castle. Even today, the magnificent sight of nine mikoshi (portable shrines) carried by local ujiko (parishioners) rushing up the stone steps of Otoko-zaka (the male slope) captivates many tourists. The splendid procession of the Shinko-sai (procession of the divine palanquin) is also one of the highlights of the Sanno Matsuri.
The Tokyo Air Raids and a Miraculous Survival
During the Tokyo Air Raids in World War II, many buildings were destroyed, but Hie Jinja miraculously survived with its main hall intact. This fact speaks to the deep faith in the jinja and the strength of people’s prayers.
Modern Hie Jinja: A Sacred Space in the Heart of Politics
Today, Hie Jinja is located adjacent to the National Diet Building, serving as a sacred sanctuary in the heart of Japan’s political center and attracting the faith of many worshippers. It is believed to offer various blessings such as family safety, business prosperity, and warding off evil, continuing to play its role as a presence that supports people’s lives even in modern society.
Summary
Hie Jinja, where history, legends, and modern faith intertwine, can be called a premier power spot in Tokyo, going beyond the mere framework of a jinja. With charming divine monkeys, the magnificent Sanno Matsuri, and its value as a historic structure, there are plenty of attractions to see. We encourage you to visit and experience its charm for yourself.
Related Links and References
[1] Hie Jinja / Chiyoda City Cultural Assets Website: https://www.edo-chiyoda.jp/bunkazaihogonotorikumi/bunkazaihogochosain/hogocho2019/1/360.html
[2] Hie Jinja (Sanno-sama) – Tokyo Metropolitan Jinja Agency: http://www.tokyo-jinjacho.or.jp/chiyoda/5550
[3] Hie Jinja (Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo/Jinja) | e-NAVITA (e-Navita) – Station Area/Town Spot Information Search Site: https://www.navita.co.jp/s/11126849/