The feature film “Your Name,” directed by Makoto Shinkai, became a social phenomenon in 2016. The sacred site that many fans visit as the model for the “Miyamizu Shrine” that appears in the film is the Hida Sanno-gu Hie Shrine located in Takayama City, Gifu Prefecture. This article provides a detailed explanation of the charm of Hie Shrine, access methods, photography spots, and historical background for those planning a pilgrimage to the sacred site.
What is Hida Sanno-gu Hie Shrine?
Hida Sanno-gu Hie Shrine is a venerable shrine situated on Shiroyama (Castle Mountain) in Takayama City, Gifu Prefecture. Known locally by the affectionate name “Sanno-sama,” it is recognized as an important shrine that preserves the history and culture of Hida Takayama.
Basic Information About the Shrine
Official Name: Hida Sanno-gu Hie Shrine
Location: 156 Shiroyama, Takayama City, Gifu Prefecture
Principal Deity: Oyamazui no Kami
Founded: Eiji 1st Year (1141)
Shrine Classification: Former Prefectural Shrine
Hie Shrine was established by enshrining Oyamazui no Kami from Hiyoshi Taisha in Ōmi Province (present-day Shiga Prefecture). Oyamazui no Kami is revered as a deity of mountains and water, and is worshipped as a protective deity of agriculture and sake brewing.
Connection to “Your Name”
The “Miyamizu Shrine” that appears in the film “Your Name” serves as an important stage in the story, where the protagonist Mitsuha works as a shrine maiden. In the film, a red torii gate and stone steps are depicted impressively, and due to their striking similarity to Hida Sanno-gu Hie Shrine, it has attracted attention as one of the model locations.
Similarities with the Film
- Red Torii Gate: The red torii gate that appears in the famous opening scene of the film has a similar composition to the torii gate at Hie Shrine
- Stone Steps: The atmosphere of the long stone steps leading from the torii gate overlaps with the depiction in the film
- Shrine in the Mountains: The location nestled in the grove of Shiroyama aligns with the image of Miyamizu Shrine in Itomori Town
- Hida Region: The film’s setting is in the Hida region, making the geographic connection strong
Director Makoto Shinkai is known for creating works based on multiple locations, and Hie Shrine is considered an important element in creating the visual image of Miyamizu Shrine.
Highlights and Photography Spots for Sacred Site Pilgrimage
1. Red Torii Gate and Stone Steps
The first thing that strikes your eye when visiting Hie Shrine is the bright vermillion torii gate. The stone steps leading from this gate to the worship hall evoke that famous scene from the film “Your Name,” the scene where RADWIMPS’ “Zenzenzense” plays.
Photography Point: Viewing the stone steps from directly in front of the torii gate creates a composition most similar to a scene from the film. Depending on the angle of light in early morning or evening, you can capture more fantastical photographs.
2. Worship Hall and Main Hall
After climbing the stone steps, a solemn worship hall appears. Beyond the worship hall lies the main hall, where ten deities including Oyamazui no Kami are enshrined. The serene atmosphere enveloping the grounds truly evokes the ambiance of a sacred space.
3. Shiroyama Grove
Hie Shrine is surrounded by the abundant nature of Shiroyama. As you stroll through the grounds, your heart is cleansed by the beauty of the forest displaying different faces with each season. Particularly during the season of fresh greenery and autumn foliage, the entire shrine is enveloped in nature’s colors, increasing its worth visiting.
4. Subsidiary Shrines and Stone Monuments
Various subsidiary shrines and commemorative monuments are scattered around the main hall. Stone monuments and lanterns evoking a sense of history are also popular as photography points.
History and Faith of Hie Shrine
Circumstances of Establishment
Hida Sanno-gu Hie Shrine was founded in the first year of Eiji (1141) by enshrining Oyamazui no Kami from Hiyoshi Taisha (Hiyoshi Sanno Gongen) in Ōmi Province. The Hida Provincial Governor of the time is said to have brought Sanno faith to Hida Takayama due to the relationship with Enryaku-ji Temple at Mount Hiei in Kyoto.
What is Sanno Faith?
Sanno faith is a form of syncretic Buddhism-Shinto belief centered on Oyamazui no Kami, the territorial deity of Mount Hiei. The term “Sanno” means the king of mountains, referring to a god who is the supreme deity of mountains, and it developed as the protective deity of Enryaku-ji Temple. In Hida Takayama as well, Hie Shrine has been deeply revered by local people as Sanno-sama.
Divine Nature of Oyamazui no Kami
The principal deity Oyamazui no Kami appears in the “Kojiki” (Records of Ancient Matters) and possesses the following divine attributes:
- Deity of Mountains: Controls mountains and brings the blessings of mountains
- Deity of Water: Protects water sources and governs agricultural water
- Deity of Sake Brewing: Protects sake brewing from quality water and rice
- Deity of Matchmaking: Possesses the power to connect people with people and people with nature
Hida Takayama is known as one of Japan’s premier sake-producing regions, and faith in Oyamazui no Kami is deeply connected to the region’s industries.
Relationship with Takayama Festival
Hie Shrine is the venue for the “Sanno Festival” (Sanno Matsuri), the spring festival among the “Takayama Festival,” counted as one of Japan’s three most beautiful festivals. The Sanno Festival, held on April 14-15 each year, features magnificent floats parading through the castle town and attracts many tourists.
Access Methods and Surrounding Information
Access by Train
On Foot from JR Takayama Station
- Time Required: Approximately 20 minutes
- Distance: Approximately 1.5 km
- Route: Exit from the east exit of Takayama Station, go north on Honmachi-dori. Head east on Yasukawa-dori and proceed to the base of Shiroyama
By Bus
- Take the “Sarubobо Bus” from Takayama Station and get off at “Hie Shrine Mae”
- As the number of buses is limited, it is recommended to check the timetable in advance
Access by Car
From Chuo Expressway Takayama IC
- Time Required: Approximately 10 minutes
- Parking: Free parking lot at the shrine grounds (approximately 20 spaces)
Notes: The center of Takayama City becomes crowded during tourist season, so visiting early in the morning is recommended. Additionally, the road near the entrance to the stone steps is narrow, so care is needed when visiting with large vehicles.
Nearby Tourist Spots
When visiting Hie Shrine, it is recommended to also visit the following nearby spots:
Takayama Jinya
The only remaining government magistrate’s building from the Edo period. Approximately 15 minutes on foot.
Old Town District (Sanmachi Traditional Building Preservation District)
A town district retaining the atmosphere of the Edo period. A highlight of Hida Takayama tourism. Approximately 20 minutes on foot.
Sakurayama Hachimangu Shrine
The venue for the autumn Takayama Festival (Hachimangu Festival). Approximately 10 minutes on foot from Hie Shrine.
Miyagawa Morning Market
A famous morning market in Hida Takayama. Fresh vegetables and crafts from locals are displayed.
Etiquette and Precautions for Worship
Basic Worship Protocol
- Bow once before passing through the torii gate: Shows respect for entering a sacred space
- Walk along the edge of the approach: The center is considered the path of the deity
- Purify at the water ablution basin: Cleanse the left hand, right hand, and mouth in that order
- At the worship hall: The basic protocol is two bows, two claps, and one bow
Notes on Photography
- Be considerate and do not obstruct other worshippers
- Do not photograph in areas where photography is prohibited, such as inside the main hall
- Avoid using tripods during crowded times and keep usage brief
- When posting on social media, be considerate not to include other worshippers in photos
Etiquette for Sacred Site Pilgrimage
While many fans visit Hie Shrine as a sacred site from “Your Name,” remember that it is ultimately a place of faith:
- Do not speak loudly
- Always take trash with you
- Do not forget consideration for local people
- Do not damage shrine facilities or nature
Omamori (Sacred Amulets) and Goshuin (Shrine Stamp) Information
Goshuin
At Hie Shrine, you can receive the standard goshuin. The reception hours at the shrine office are generally 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, though responses may not be possible during religious ceremonies or festivals.
Donation: 300 to 500 yen (may vary depending on the period)
Amulets and Sacred Gifts
- Matchmaking Amulet: An amulet related to the divine virtue of Oyamazui no Kami
- Traffic Safety Amulet: For safe travels
- Academic Success Amulet: Popular with students preparing for exams
- Sanno Amulet: An original amulet of Hie Shrine
Hie Shrine Throughout the Seasons
Spring (March to May)
Hie Shrine in spring is a season of beautiful fresh greenery and grounds filled with vitality. During the Sanno Festival in mid-April, the shrine is crowded with many worshippers. During cherry blossom season, the entire Shiroyama area is dyed in soft pink.
Summer (June to August)
Enveloped in deep green, the grounds are filled with cool air. Early morning worship is particularly refreshing and renews both body and spirit.
Autumn (September to November)
Autumn foliage season is when Hie Shrine displays its most beautiful appearance. The contrast between trees colored red and yellow and the vermillion torii gate is spectacular. The autumn Takayama Festival (Hachimangu Festival) is also held in October.
Winter (December to February)
Hie Shrine dressed in snow possesses a mysterious atmosphere enveloped in silence. Since Hida Takayama is a heavy snowfall region, one must exercise caution on snowy days, but the shrine standing in a silver-white world has a beauty of another world.
Connection to “Hyouka”
Hie Shrine appears not only in “Your Name” but also in the anime “Hyouka” produced by Kyoto Animation. It is believed to be the model for “Arakusu Shrine” in the work and is known among anime fans as a sacred site for two different works.
“Hyouka” is a youth mystery work set in Hida Takayama, and Hie Shrine appears as the stage for important scenes. Many fans enjoy sacred site pilgrimage together with “Your Name,” making it a representative spot in anime tourism.
Lodging and Cuisine in Hida Takayama
Recommended Accommodations
Takayama Green Hotel
An established hotel where you can enjoy natural hot springs and Hida beef cuisine. Within walking distance of Hie Shrine.
Honjin Hiranoya
A long-established inn continuing from the Edo period. You can experience traditional Japanese hospitality.
Guest Houses
Many guest houses in renovated old houses are available, allowing for affordable accommodation.
Cuisine of Hida Takayama
Hida Beef
A representative Japanese brand beef. Enjoy it in various forms including steak, sukiyaki, and nigiri sushi.
Takayama Ramen
Characterized by a light soy-based broth. Perfect pairing with thin curly noodles.
Magnolia Leaf Miso
A local dish where miso and Hida beef or vegetables are grilled on a magnolia leaf.
Mitarashi Dango
A famous Takayama confection. Characterized by a soy-based sauce.
Sacred Site Pilgrimage Model Courses
Day Trip Course
9:00 AM Arrival at JR Takayama Station
9:20 AM Worship and photography at Hie Shrine (approximately 60 minutes)
10:30 AM Stroll through old town district
12:00 PM Lunch (Hida beef lunch)
1:30 PM Visit Takayama Jinya
3:00 PM Stroll around Miyagawa Morning Market
4:30 PM Purchase souvenirs
5:30 PM Departure from Takayama Station
One Night, Two Days Course
Day 1
Morning: Arrival at Takayama Station, hotel check-in
Afternoon: Stroll through old town district, visit Sakurayama Hachimangu Shrine
Evening: Worship at Hie Shrine (photography at dusk)
Night: Hida beef dinner
Day 2
Early Morning: Miyagawa Morning Market
Morning: Visit Takayama Jinya, revisit Hie Shrine (photography in morning light)
Afternoon: Shirakawa-go tour (optional)
Evening: Departure from Takayama Station
Conclusion: Experiencing the Charm of Hida Takayama Through Sacred Site Pilgrimage
Hida Sanno-gu Hie Shrine is a shrine well worth visiting not only as a sacred site from “Your Name” but as a venerable shrine with approximately 880 years of history. The experience of passing through the red torii gate and climbing the stone steps while recalling scenes from the film will become a special memory for fans.
Offering prayers to Oyamazui no Kami in the serene grounds enveloped by the grove of Shiroyama, touching the history and culture of Hida Takayama, and fully savoring the attractions of this region while enjoying the charm of the old town district and Hida beef cuisine—this is the true delight of a sacred site pilgrimage centered on Hie Shrine.
By visiting the model location of the beautiful visual world depicted by Director Makoto Shinkai, your understanding of the work will deepen and you will make new discoveries. By all means, visit Hida Takayama and experience the world of “Your Name” at Hie Shrine.
Maintain proper worship etiquette and remember consideration for local people as you enjoy a wonderful pilgrimage to this sacred site.
