# Hiyoshi Taisha

> The head of some 3,800 Hie, Hiyoshi and Sanno shrines nationwide, set in the Sakamoto foothills of Mount Hiei and long revered as a guardian against misfortune from the unlucky northeast.

- Prefecture: Shiga
- Type: Shrine
- Address: Otsu, Shiga, Japan
- Opening hours: Mon–Sun 09:00–16:30
- Admission: 500 yen
- Official site: https://hiyoshitaisha.jp/

Hiyoshi Taisha spreads across the wooded foothills of Mount Hiei at Sakamoto and is the head of the nationwide network of Hie, Hiyoshi and Sanno shrines. Because it stands to the northeast of the old capital, the unlucky 'demon gate' direction, it was long worshipped for protection against misfortune, and its guardian monkey, the masaru, appears throughout the grounds. The precinct holds two national-treasure main halls built in a distinctive Hie-zukuri style, along with the red Sanno torii and an arched bridge attributed to the era of Toyotomi Hideyoshi. In autumn some 3,000 maples turn the valley crimson, making it one of the best foliage sites in Shiga.

## FAQ

### When is the best time to visit Hiyoshi Taisha for autumn leaves?

Mid-to-late November is usually the peak, when roughly 3,000 maples across the grounds turn colour and the shrine holds an evening illumination.

### How do I get to Hiyoshi Taisha?

It is about a 10-minute walk uphill from Keihan Sakamoto-Hieizanguchi Station or JR Hieizan-Sakamoto Station, in the Sakamoto district below Mount Hiei.

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Source: Hiyoshi Taisha — Japan Voyage