【Shinkai Makoto Works】”Your Name” Sacred Site Pilgrimage Complete Guide – Hida Sanno-gu Hie Shrine (Gifu Prefecture) Charm and Highlights
In 2016, director Shinkai Makoto’s feature-length animated film “Your Name” caused a social phenomenon. The Hida Sanno-gu Hie Shrine located in Takayama City, Gifu Prefecture is a sacred site visited by many fans as the model for the “Miyamizu Shrine” that appears in the film. In this article, for those planning a sacred site pilgrimage, we provide detailed explanations of Hie Shrine’s charm, access methods, photo spots, and historical background.
Hida Sanno-gu Hie Shrine
Hida Sanno-gu Hie Shrine is a venerable shrine located on Shiroyama in Takayama City, Gifu Prefecture. Known locally by the affectionate name “Sanno-sama,” it is recognized as an important shrine that conveys the history and culture of Hida Takayama to the present day.
Basic Information about the Shrine
Official Name: Hida Sanno-gu Hie Shrine
Location: 156 Shiroyama, Takayama City, Gifu Prefecture
Enshrined Deity: Oyamakui no Kami
Founded: Eiji 1st Year (1141)
Shrine Rank: Former Prefectural Shrine
Hie Shrine was founded by inviting Oyamakui no Kami from Hiyoshi Taisha in Ōmi Province (present-day Shiga Prefecture). Oyamakui no Kami is revered as a god of mountains and water, and is also believed in as a guardian deity of agriculture and sake brewing.
Relation to “Your Name”
The “Miyamizu Shrine” that appears in the film “Your Name” serves as an important stage in the story as the shrine where the protagonist Taki serves as a shrine maiden. In the film, the red torii gate and stone steps are depicted impressively, and due to these characteristics’ striking resemblance to Hida Sanno-gu Hie Shrine, it has received attention as one of the model locations.
Common Points with the Film
- Red Torii Gate: The red torii gate appearing in the famous opening scene of the film has a composition similar to Hie Shrine’s torii
- Stone Steps: The atmosphere of the long stone steps continuing from the torii overlaps with the depiction in the film
- Mountain Shrine: The location nestled within 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 geographical connection strong
Director Shinkai Makoto is known for creating works with reference to multiple locations, and Hie Shrine is considered one of the important elements composing the visual image of Miyamizu Shrine.
Sacred Site Pilgrimage Highlights and Photo Spots
1. Red Torii Gate and Stone Steps
Upon visiting Hie Shrine, the first thing that catches your eye is the vivid vermillion torii gate. The stone steps continuing from this gate to the main hall evoke that famous scene from “Your Name,” where RADWIMPS’ “Zen Zen Zensai” plays.
Photography Point: Viewing the stone steps from the front of the torii gate creates a composition closest to a scene from the film. Depending on the lighting at early morning or dusk, you can capture more fantastical photographs.
2. Main Hall and Inner Sanctuary
Upon reaching the top of the stone steps, a solemn main hall appears. Beyond the main hall lies the inner sanctuary, where Oyamakui no Kami and nine other deities are enshrined. The serene atmosphere enveloping the grounds emanates the feeling of sacred space.
3. Shiroyama Grove
Hie Shrine is surrounded by the rich nature of Shiroyama. Exploring the grounds, your heart will be cleansed by the beauty of the forest displaying its seasonal expressions. Especially during the fresh green season and autumn foliage period, the entire shrine is enveloped in nature’s colors, heightening its worth visiting.
4. Subsidiary Shrines and Stone Monuments
Multiple subsidiary shrines and monuments are scattered around the inner sanctuary. Stone monuments and lanterns evoking historical atmosphere are also popular as photography points.
History and Faith of Hie Shrine
Founding Circumstances
Hida Sanno-gu Hie Shrine was founded in Eiji 1st Year (1141) by inviting Oyamakui no Kami from Hiyoshi Taisha (Hiyoshi Sanno Gongen) in Ōmi Province. It is said that the Hida Province governor at that time introduced Sanno faith to Hida Takayama due to relations with Enryaku-ji Temple in Kyoto.
Sanno Faith
Sanno faith is a form of syncretic belief centered on Oyamakui no Kami, the guardian deity of Mt. Hiei. The term “Sanno” means the king of mountains, the deity, and developed as the guardian of Enryaku-ji Temple. In Hida Takayama as well, Hie Shrine has been deeply believed in by local people as Sanno-sama.
Divine Attributes of Oyamakui no Kami
The enshrined deity Oyamakui no Kami, who appears in the “Kojiki” (Records of Ancient Matters), possesses the following divine attributes:
- God of Mountains: Controls mountains and brings forth mountain blessings
- God of Water: Protects water sources and governs agricultural irrigation
- God of Sake Brewing: Protects the sake brewing that emerges from quality water and rice
- God of Matchmaking: Possesses the power to bind people to people and people to nature
Hida Takayama is known as one of Japan’s premier sake regions, and belief in Oyamakui no Kami is deeply connected to the region’s industries.
Connection to Takayama Festival
Hie Shrine serves as the venue for the “Sanno Festival” (spring Takayama Festival), one of Japan’s three great beautiful festivals. The Sanno Festival, held annually on April 14-15, features splendid floats parading through the castle town and draws many tourists.
Access and Surrounding Information
Access by Train
From JR Takayama Station on Foot
- Travel Time: Approximately 20 minutes
- Distance: Approximately 1.5 km
- Route: Exit from Takayama Station’s east exit, head north on Honcho-dori. Proceed east on Yasukawa-dori, heading toward the base of Shiroyama
By Bus
- From Takayama Station, take the “Sarubobo Bus” and get off at “Hie Shrine Mae”
- As the number of routes is limited, checking the timetable in advance is recommended
Access by Car
From Chubu Jukan Expressway Takayama IC
- Travel Time: Approximately 10 minutes
- Parking: Free parking available at the shrine grounds (approximately 20 vehicles)
Caution: The center of Takayama is congested during tourist seasons, so visiting early in the day is recommended. Also, the area near the base of the stone steps has a narrow road, so caution is needed when visiting in large vehicles.
Nearby Tourist Spots
When visiting Hie Shrine, we recommend combining it with a visit to the following nearby spots:
Takayama Jinya
The only existing building from the Edo period serving as a magistrate’s office. Approximately 15 minutes on foot.
Old Town District (Sancho Traditional Building Group Preservation District)
A townscape retaining the atmosphere of the Edo period. The highlight of Hida Takayama sightseeing. Approximately 20 minutes on foot.
Sakurayama Hachiman Shrine
The venue for autumn Takayama Festival (Hachiman Festival). Approximately 10 minutes on foot from Hie Shrine.
Miyagawa Morning Market
A famous morning market in Hida Takayama. Fresh vegetables and crafts from the area are lined up.
Worship Etiquette and Precautions
Basic Worship Procedure
- Bow before passing through the torii: Shows respect for entering sacred space
- Walk to the side of the approach: The center is said to be the path of the deity
- Purify at the water basin: Rinse the left hand, right hand, and mouth in that order
- Procedure at the main hall: The standard is two bows, two claps, and one bow
Photography Precautions
- Be considerate not to disturb other worshippers
- Do not photograph in areas where photography is prohibited, such as the inner sanctuary
- Avoid using tripods during crowded times and keep usage brief
- When posting to SNS, be considerate not to capture other worshippers
Sacred Site Pilgrimage Etiquette
While many fans visit Hie Shrine as a sacred site from “Your Name,” remember it is ultimately a place of worship:
- Do not speak loudly
- Always take trash with you
- Do not forget consideration for local people
- Do not damage shrine facilities or nature
Goshuin and Omamori Information
Goshuin (Shrine Seal/Stamp)
At Hie Shrine, you can receive a standard goshuin. The office reception hours are generally 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, but may be unavailable during religious ceremonies or festivals.
Initial Offering: 300 to 500 yen (may vary depending on the period)
Amulets and Dispensary Items
- Matchmaking Amulet: Amulet based on Oyamakui no Kami’s divine virtues
- Traffic Safety Amulet: Prayers for safe travels
- Academic Achievement Amulet: Popular with test-takers
- Sanno Amulet: Original amulet of Hie Shrine
Hie Shrine Through the Four Seasons
Spring (March to May)
Hie Shrine in spring is a season of beautiful fresh greenery, with the grounds filled with vitality. During the Sanno Festival in mid-April, the shrine is busy with many visitors. During cherry blossom season, the Shiroyama area is tinged with pale pink.
Summer (June to August)
The grounds enveloped in deep green exude a cool atmosphere. Early morning worship is particularly refreshing, rejuvenating both body and mind.
Autumn (September to November)
Autumn foliage season is when Hie Shrine displays its most beautiful appearance. The contrast between trees colored in red and yellow and the vermillion torii gate is spectacular. The autumn Takayama Festival (Hachiman Festival) is also held in October.
Winter (December to February)
Hie Shrine adorned with snow is enveloped in a mystical atmosphere of silence. Since Hida Takayama is a heavy snowfall region, extra caution is needed regarding footing on snowy days, but the shrine standing in a silver-white world possesses otherworldly beauty.
Connection to “Hyouka”
Hie Shrine appears not only in “Your Name” but also in the anime “Hyouka” produced by Kyoto Animation. It is said to be the model for the “Arakusunoki Shrine” in the work and is known among anime fans as a sacred site for both productions.
“Hyouka” is a youth mystery work set in Hida Takayama, with Hie Shrine appearing as the venue for important scenes. Many fans enjoy sacred site pilgrimages combining “Your Name” and “Hyouka,” and it has become a representative spot for anime tourism.
Accommodation 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 to Hie Shrine.
Honjin Hiranoya
A long-established inn continuing from the Edo period. Experience traditional Japanese hospitality.
Guest Houses
Many guest houses housed in renovated traditional buildings offer affordable accommodation.
Hida Takayama Cuisine
Hida Beef
A representative Japanese brand beef. Enjoy in various forms including steak, sukiyaki, and nigiri sushi.
Takayama Ramen
Light, soy sauce-based broth characterizes this dish. Pairs perfectly with thin curly noodles.
Hoba Miso
Regional cuisine with miso and Hida beef or vegetables grilled on magnolia leaves.
Mitarashi Dumplings
Takayama’s famous sweet. Characterized by a soy sauce-based sauce.
Sacred Site Pilgrimage Model Courses
Day Trip Course
9:00 AM Arrival at JR Takayama Station
9:20 AM Hie Shrine worship and photography (approximately 60 minutes)
10:30 AM Old town district walking tour
12:00 PM Lunch (Hida beef lunch)
1:30 PM Takayama Jinya viewing
3:00 PM Miyagawa Morning Market area exploration
4:30 PM Souvenir shopping
5:30 PM Departure from Takayama Station
1 Night 2 Days Course
Day 1
Morning: Arrival at Takayama Station, hotel check-in
Afternoon: Old town district walking tour, Sakurayama Hachiman Shrine worship
Evening: Hie Shrine worship (sunset photography)
Night: Hida beef dinner
Day 2
Early morning: Miyagawa Morning Market
Morning: Takayama Jinya viewing, Hie Shrine revisit (morning light photography)
Afternoon: Shirakawa-go sightseeing (optional)
Evening: Departure from Takayama Station
Conclusion: Experiencing Hida Takayama’s Charm Through Sacred Site Pilgrimage
Hida Sanno-gu Hie Shrine is a site worth visiting not only as a sacred site from “Your Name” but also 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 Oyamakui no Kami in the serene grounds embraced by the Shiroyama grove and touching the history and culture of Hida Takayama. And while enjoying the charm of the region through old town districts and Hida beef cuisine, one experiences the essence of a Hie Shrine-centered Hida Takayama sacred site pilgrimage.
Visiting the model location depicted in the beautiful images by director Shinkai Makoto deepens understanding of the work and brings new discoveries. Please visit Hida Takayama and experience the world of “Your Name” at Hie Shrine.
Remember to observe worship etiquette and not forget consideration for local people as you enjoy a wonderful sacred site pilgrimage journey.
