Sanno Hie Shrine - a shrine with a purple cloth draped over it
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Sanno Hie Shrine

4.6
·491k reviews·Ota City, Japan

A vibrant red shrine within Hie Shrine, dedicated to prosperity and guarded by lucky monkeys.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

June (during Sanno Matsuri)

Experience one of Tokyo's biggest festivals

CrowdHigh
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Sanno Hie Shrine - a shrine with a purple cloth draped over it

Sanno Hie Shrine

Best Time

June (during Sanno Matsuri)

Experience one of Tokyo's biggest festivals

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A vibrant red shrine within Hie Shrine, dedicated to prosperity and guarded by lucky monkeys.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Discover the lucky monkey statues and vibrant red gates at Sanno Hie Shrine for good fortune!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Seek out the monkeys!

Don't miss the unique monkey statues, symbols of good luck and prosperity at Hie Shrine. :monkey:

📅 Check festival dates

The Sanno Matsuri in June is spectacular, but expect large crowds. Plan accordingly! :calendar:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Sanno Inari Shrine

Sanno Inari Shrine

Within Hie Shrine grounds

A vibrant red shrine dedicated to harvest and business prosperity, guarded by sacred monkeys.

Hie Shrine's Sacred Monkeys

Hie Shrine's Sacred Monkeys

Hie Shrine grounds

Unique monkey statues believed to bring good luck and ward off misfortune. A charming photo opportunity.

Sanno Matsuri Festival

Sanno Matsuri Festival

Hie Shrine

One of Japan's three major festivals, featuring parades, traditional dances, and a lively atmosphere.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit to Sanno Hie Shrine

Sanno Hie Shrine is part of the larger Hie Shrine complex. For the most vibrant experience, aim for the Sanno Matsuri festival in June. Outside of this major event, weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends, offering a more serene visit. Consider visiting in the morning to avoid the midday heat and larger tour groups.

Navigating Hie Shrine and Sanno Hie Shrine

Sanno Hie Shrine is a smaller, distinct shrine located within the grounds of Hie Shrine. While Hie Shrine itself is quite large with multiple paths and staircases, Sanno Hie Shrine is easily accessible. Look for the distinctive red torii gates and the statues of monkeys, which are symbols of prosperity and good fortune.

Best Times

When
June (during Sanno Matsuri)
Why
Experience one of Tokyo's biggest festivals
Crowd
High
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Peaceful atmosphere, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoons
Why
Good for photography, less intense heat
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Must visit real life anime locations in Japan (4/10)👊🏻 Anime: Tokyo Revengers 東京リベンジャーズ✨ Location: Tokyo High School, Ōta (東京高等学校の前)→The location can be found in front of the high school near the river🌲!! #tokyorevengers #東京リベンジャーズ #animereallife #聖地巡礼 #tokyo #japan
@otakuintokyo
266.1K likes • 1.5M views

🎯 Seek out the monkeys!

Don't miss the unique monkey statues, symbols of good luck and prosperity at Hie Shrine. :monkey:

📅 Check festival dates

The Sanno Matsuri in June is spectacular, but expect large crowds. Plan accordingly! :calendar:

🇯🇵 Kyoto Japan, Otagi Nenbutsu-ji 1000 faces temple This Temple is about 15 minutes from Arashiyama up into the tranquil hills surrounding Kyoto. You can access it by bus from Arashiyama main train station. Otagi Nembutsu-ji Buddhist temple is home to over 1200 unique hand carved statues of Rakan the Buddhas disciples in all kinds of different expressions. It's a little off the main tourist track ...
@lukemcameron
22K likes • 345.6K views
Do you know Tokyo also has Inari Shrine? Here are two beautiful Inari Shrine you can visit while in Tokyo! Sanno Inari Shrine at Hie Shrine Hidden within Hie Shrine in Akasaka, this small shrine symbolizes harvest and business prosperity. Being near the masaru (sacred monkey) statue, it’s believed to bring good luck and ward off misfortune! The red torii gates create a stunning photo spot, and ...
vivis_life_journey
1.5K likes • 47.4K views

👟 Wear comfortable shoes

Hie Shrine has many stairs and paths; comfortable footwear is essential for exploring. :athletic_shoe:

📸 Capture the red gates

The vibrant red torii gates of Sanno Inari Shrine make for stunning photos. :camerawithflash:

The Sanno Matsuri Bon Odori 2024 Sanno Matsuri (Festival) is one of the three major festivals in Japan, along with the Gion Festival in Kyoto and the Tenjin Festival in Osaka. Sanno Ondo is a traditional Japanese Bon Odori (Obon Dance) . Hie Shrine 2-10-5 Nagatacho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo #bonodori #sannoumatsuri #ObonDance #山王祭 #山王音頭
the.chair.shop
1.3K likes • 138.2K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Seek out the monkeys!

Don't miss the unique monkey statues, symbols of good luck and prosperity at Hie Shrine. :monkey:

📅 Check festival dates

The Sanno Matsuri in June is spectacular, but expect large crowds. Plan accordingly! :calendar:

👟 Wear comfortable shoes

Hie Shrine has many stairs and paths; comfortable footwear is essential for exploring. :athletic_shoe:

📸 Capture the red gates

The vibrant red torii gates of Sanno Inari Shrine make for stunning photos. :camerawithflash:

🐒 Visit Sanno Inari Shrine

This smaller shrine within Hie Shrine is dedicated to prosperity and business success. :moneywithwings:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Sanno Hie Shrine for its unique monkey statues and the vibrant red torii gates of the Sanno Inari Shrine, often highlighting its role in prosperity. The larger Hie Shrine complex offers a peaceful escape with historical significance. While the Sanno Matsuri is a major draw, it can lead to significant crowds.

What People Like

Unique monkey statues
Vibrant red torii gates
Prosperity blessings

What People Dislike

Crowds during festivals

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

From Tokyo Station, take the JR Yamanote Line to Akihabara, then transfer to the Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line to Kokkai-gijidomae Station. Hie Shrine, including Sanno Hie Shrine, is a short walk from there. Alternatively, you can take the Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line to Kasumigaseki Station and walk. TikTok

The closest stations are Akasaka Station (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line), Tameike-Sanno Station (Tokyo Metro Namboku and Ginza Lines), and Kokkai-gijidomae Station (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda and Marunouchi Lines). All are within a 5-10 minute walk. Instagram

Yes, several bus routes stop near Hie Shrine. You can check local bus schedules for routes serving the Akasaka area or Nagatacho. Reddit

Yes, it's a pleasant walk from the Imperial Palace East Garden area to Hie Shrine, taking approximately 15-20 minutes. This route allows you to see more of the city. Instagram

Hie Shrine has limited parking available. It's generally recommended to use public transportation due to the convenience and potential parking challenges in central Tokyo. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, there is no entrance fee to visit Sanno Hie Shrine or the main Hie Shrine grounds. It is free to enter and explore. Instagram

Hie Shrine is generally open from early morning until late afternoon or early evening. Specific hours can vary slightly, but it's typically accessible from around 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Reddit

To avoid the largest crowds, aim for weekday mornings, especially outside of major festival periods. Weekends and public holidays tend to be busier. Instagram

No advance booking is required for general visits to Sanno Hie Shrine. Entry is free and open to all visitors. Reddit

Yes, the Sanno Matsuri, held annually in June, is a major highlight. Other smaller events and ceremonies may also take place throughout the year. Instagram+2

📸 📸 Photography

The vibrant red torii gates of Sanno Inari Shrine are a must-capture. Also, look for the unique monkey statues and the main shrine buildings for picturesque shots. Instagram

Yes, photography is generally allowed within the Hie Shrine grounds, including at Sanno Hie Shrine. However, be respectful of worshippers and avoid intrusive photography during ceremonies. Reddit

Drone usage is typically prohibited at most shrines and temples in Japan, including Hie Shrine, to ensure the peace and safety of visitors. Always check local regulations. Reddit

Early morning or late afternoon often provides the best light for photography, with softer shadows and a more serene atmosphere. Golden hour can be particularly beautiful. Reddit

During Sanno Matsuri, the parades and traditional dances offer dynamic and colorful photo opportunities. Be prepared for crowds and capture the energy of the festival. Instagram+1

🎫 ⛩️ Onsite Experience

Sanno Hie Shrine is dedicated to prosperity, good harvest, and business success. It's a popular spot for those seeking good fortune. Instagram

These are 'Masaru' statues, believed to bring good luck and ward off misfortune. They are a unique feature of Hie Shrine and a popular photo spot. Instagram

To explore Sanno Hie Shrine and the main Hie Shrine complex, allocate at least 1-2 hours. If attending a festival, you might spend much longer. Reddit

Yes, Hie Shrine generally has restroom facilities available for visitors. It's always a good idea to carry a water bottle, especially during warmer months. Reddit

The Sanno Matsuri is one of Japan's three major festivals, celebrated at Hie Shrine in June. It features grand processions and traditional performances. Instagram+2

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Hie Shrine, including Sanno Hie Shrine, offers a visually engaging experience for families. The unique monkey statues are a particular hit with children, sparking curiosity and offering fun photo opportunities. The shrine grounds are spacious enough for kids to explore, and the peaceful atmosphere provides a nice contrast to more crowded tourist spots. Instagram

During the Sanno Matsuri in June, the festival atmosphere can be exciting for older children, with parades and lively music. However, it can also be very crowded, so keeping a close eye on little ones is essential. Consider visiting on a weekday morning for a more relaxed family outing. Comfortable shoes are a must, as there are stairs and paths to navigate. Instagram+1

🙏 Spiritual Seekers & Culture Enthusiasts

For those interested in Japanese spirituality and culture, Hie Shrine and Sanno Hie Shrine offer a rich experience. The shrine's historical ties to the Tokugawa shogunate and its role as a guardian deity of Tokyo provide deep historical context. The Sanno Hie Shrine's focus on prosperity makes it a significant site for those seeking blessings for success. Instagram

Attending the Sanno Matsuri is a prime opportunity to witness traditional Shinto rituals and festival practices firsthand. The elaborate processions, the sacred music, and the communal participation offer a profound insight into Japanese cultural heritage. Even outside of festival times, the serene ambiance of the shrine grounds allows for quiet contemplation and appreciation of traditional Japanese architecture and design. Instagram+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Significance of Hie Shrine and Sanno Hie Shrine

Hie Shrine, known as the 'mountain king shrine,' is one of Tokyo's most important Shinto shrines, historically linked to the Tokugawa shogunate. It's revered as a guardian deity for the city and the Imperial family. Within its expansive grounds lies the Sanno Hie Shrine, a smaller but significant shrine dedicated to prosperity and good fortune. Its vibrant red torii gates and the presence of 'Masaru,' the sacred monkey statues, make it a distinctive and auspicious spot. Instagram+1

The 'Masaru' statues are a unique feature, symbolizing good luck and protection against misfortune. Visitors often touch these statues for blessings. The Sanno Hie Shrine is particularly popular among business people and those seeking success in their endeavors. The overall atmosphere of Hie Shrine is one of tranquility and spiritual significance, offering a peaceful escape from the bustling city. Instagram+1

Beyond its spiritual importance, Hie Shrine is also a cultural hub, especially during the Sanno Matsuri. This grand festival, held annually in June, is one of Japan's three major festivals and draws significant crowds. The festival includes elaborate processions with portable shrines (mikoshi) and traditional performances, showcasing a rich tapestry of Japanese culture and tradition. Instagram+2

Experiencing the Sanno Matsuri

The Sanno Matsuri, held at Hie Shrine, is a spectacular event that transforms the shrine grounds and surrounding areas into a vibrant celebration. Recognized as one of Japan's three major festivals, it's a deeply rooted tradition that honors the shrine's guardian deities. The festival typically spans several days in June, culminating in grand processions that showcase the cultural heritage of Tokyo. Instagram+1

A highlight of the Sanno Matsuri is the 'Shinkosai,' a grand procession where portable shrines (mikoshi) are carried through the streets. This ceremonial parade often starts from Hie Shrine and can extend to areas like the Imperial Palace and Ginza, symbolizing the spread of divine protection throughout the city. The energy of the participants, the rhythmic chanting, and the sight of the ornate mikoshi create an unforgettable spectacle. Instagram+1

Beyond the main procession, visitors can enjoy traditional Bon Odori dances, music, and various cultural performances. The festival atmosphere is infectious, with many families and locals participating. It's an excellent opportunity to immerse yourself in Japanese festival culture, witness traditional attire, and experience the lively spirit of a true 'matsuri.' Instagram+1

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