Hie Shrine (Kagoshima Prefecture, Kamoike, Kagoshima City) Complete Guide | Otafuku-san, Goshuin (Shrine Seal), and Access Information
Nestled in a quiet residential area of Kamoike, Kagoshima City, Hie Shrine (Kamoike Hie Shrine) is a hidden gem in Kagoshima, where a giant “Otafuku-san” (a goddess of good fortune) measuring 3 meters in both height and width welcomes visitors with a gentle smile. Revered as a spiritual center for the local community since the mid-Edo period, this shrine is also known for its blessings related to safe childbirth and fertility, and in recent years, the number of visitors seeking Goshuin (shrine seals) has increased.
This article comprehensively introduces all the information you need to know before visiting Hie Shrine, including its history, blessings, highlights, access methods, and nearby tourist attractions.
History and Origins of Hie Shrine
A Local Guardian Deity Founded During the Time of Shimazu Munenobu
Kamoike Hie Shrine was founded in 1749 (Kanei 2), during the time of Shimazu Munenobu, the 23rd head of the Shimazu family. At that time, it was established with the wish for stability in people’s lives, and was initially a branch shrine of Hiyoshi Taisha (Hiyoshi Shrine) located in Sakamoto, Otsu City, Shiga Prefecture.
At the time of its founding, the area around Kamoike-cho was not a residential area as it is today, but a rural area with vast fields. Since the Edo period, it has been worshipped as the tutelary deity of the villagers in the surrounding area and has been cherished as a spiritual center for the community.
Founded Around the Same Time as the Hie Shrines of Sakamoto, Tokiwa, and Ishiki
In addition to Kamoike Hie Shrine, there are also Hie Shrines located in Sakamoto, Tokiwa, and Ishiki within Kagoshima City. These shrines were all founded around the second year of the Kan’en era, during the time of Lord Shimazu Munenobu, and are also known as “Sanno Shrine.” They have a history of being revered as local tutelary deities, with Hiyoshi Taisha as their head shrine.
It is believed that by welcoming the divine power of Hiyoshi Taisha into locations where local tutelary deities were already enshrined and the shrine grounds were well-established, the protection of the region was further strengthened.
Deities and Benefits
Deities Enshrined
Kamoike Hie Shrine enshrines the following two deities:
Oyamakui no Okami
A deity worshipped as a mountain god and local guardian deity. Known as the guardian deity of agriculture and industry.
Onamuchi no Okami
Another name for Okuninushi no Mikoto, famous as the god of nation-building. Believed to offer a wide range of benefits, including matchmaking, medicine, and industrial development. ### Diverse Blessings
Hie Shrine is believed to offer the following blessings:
- Safe Childbirth and Fertility: This is one of the reasons why many women visit the shrine.
- Good Fortune and Prosperity: As symbolized by the smile of Otafuku-san, it is believed to bring good fortune.
- Life, Death, Misfortune, and Fortune: Protection in various aspects of life.
- Safe Travel: Prayers for safe journeys.
- Medical Protection: Health and recovery from illness.
- Abundant Harvest: Prosperity in agriculture.
- Protection from Evil: Protection from disaster.
As the local guardian deity, the shrine continues to attract worshippers as a guardian deity of all aspects of people’s lives.
Highlights of the Shrine Grounds, Where Otafuku-san Welcomes You
Giant Otafuku-san | Fortune Comes to Those Who Laugh
The most distinctive feature of Hie Shrine is undoubtedly the giant Otafuku-san, measuring 3 meters in both height and width. This Otafuku statue, with its gentle, smiling face welcoming visitors, is known as a seasonal presence that only appears at the beginning of the year.
Embodying the saying, “Fortune comes to those who smile,” this large Otafuku statue’s smile is said to soothe the hearts of those who see it and invite good fortune. It has recently gained attention as a new New Year’s landmark in Kagoshima City, and many people enjoy taking commemorative photos with this Otafuku statue during their New Year’s visits.
A Sacred Tree Approximately 300 Years Old
Within the shrine grounds stands a magnificent camphor tree, said to be approximately 300 years old. It is a witness to history, having watched over this land since roughly the same time as the shrine’s founding.
This camphor tree is designated as a protected tree by Kagoshima City, and its majestic presence further enhances the dignity of the shrine. Its widely spreading branches truly convey the dignified presence of a sacred tree protecting the region.
A Peaceful Atmosphere in a Quiet Residential Area
Hie Shrine is currently located in a quiet residential area of Kamoike-cho. While the surrounding environment has changed over time from a rural area with vast fields, the shrine’s serene atmosphere remains unchanged.
One of the shrine’s charms is the opportunity to worship in a peaceful environment away from the hustle and bustle of the city. You can feel the warm atmosphere unique to a shrine deeply rooted in the community.
Goshuin (Shrine Seal) Information
About the Issuance of Goshuin
Hie Shrine offers goshuin (shrine seals). Many worshippers receive goshuin as a memento of their visit and as proof of their worship.
The date of visit is recorded on the goshuin, so the date of your visit remains as a record. For those who visited during a special era such as the first year of the Reiwa era, it holds special value as a memento.
Points to Note When Receiving a Goshuin
Goshuin are given as proof of worship. Please be sure to complete your prayers before requesting a Goshuin (stamp book).
Some shrines may not have their offices open all the time, so it is recommended to check the visiting hours in advance. With the increasing popularity of Goshuin these days, please be mindful of proper etiquette during your visit.
Access Information
Access by Train
Nearest Station: JR Ibusuki-Makurazaki Line “Kishiba Station”
The shrine is located very close to the station, approximately a 4-minute walk from the Kishiba Station exit. It is only a few stops from Kagoshima-Chuo Station on the Ibusuki-Makurazaki Line.
If using the train, get off at Kishiba Station and walk through the residential area to reach the shrine. The distance from the station is short, making it a relatively easy route even for first-time visitors.
Access by Car and Parking
If visiting by car, it is convenient to search for “Hie Shrine, Kamoike, Kagoshima City” or the address on your car navigation system. However, some people have reported that the location is difficult to find as it is located in a residential area. Parking Information
The shrine has a parking lot, but space is limited and reportedly small. Especially during busy periods such as New Year’s, using public transportation is recommended.
Address and Basic Information
Address: Kamoike-cho, Kagoshima City, Kagoshima Prefecture
Access: Approximately 4 minutes on foot from JR Kishiba Station
Parking: Available (limited number of spaces)
Before visiting, it is recommended to check the latest information on the Kagoshima City tourism website or map app.
Manners and Enjoyment of Shrine Visits
Basic Shrine Visit Etiquette
By observing basic shrine visit etiquette, you can have a more heartfelt visit.
- Bow before passing through the torii gate: This is a courtesy before entering the sacred area.
- Purify yourself at the water basin: Purify your left hand, then your right hand, then your mouth.
- Worship at the main hall: The basic procedure is two bows, two claps, and one bow.
- Stroll around the grounds: Visit the sights, such as the sacred tree and the Otafuku statue.
Regarding photography
The Otafuku statue is a popular photo spot, but please be considerate of other worshippers when taking pictures on the grounds. Especially during busy times such as New Year’s, please be mindful of others.
Recommended time to visit
New Year’s (January): This is the time when the giant Otafuku statue appears, and many worshippers visit to receive blessings for the new year.
Spring (March-April): In warm Kagoshima, spring arrives early, and the weather is pleasant.
Autumn (October-November): The weather is pleasant, allowing for a leisurely visit.
Nearby Tourist Attractions
Major Tourist Attractions in Kagoshima City
When visiting Hie Shrine, you can also visit other tourist attractions in Kagoshima City.
Sakurajima
Sakurajima, a symbol of Kagoshima, is easily accessible from the city. A 15-minute ferry ride is also enjoyable.
Sengan-en (Iso Garden)
This Japanese garden, built as a villa for the Shimazu family, offers beautiful scenery with Sakurajima as a backdrop.
Around Kagoshima Chuo Station
This area is perfect for souvenir shopping and gourmet food. You can enjoy local flavors such as Kagoshima ramen and Kurobuta pork dishes.
Nearby Hot Spring Facilities
Kagoshima is a treasure trove of hot springs. After visiting Hie Shrine, it’s recommended to relax and unwind in a hot spring.
There are many day-trip hot spring facilities in the city, making it easy to stop by between sightseeing. Experience Kagoshima’s rich hot spring culture.
Accommodation
Kagoshima City offers a variety of accommodations, from business hotels to luxury ryokans (traditional Japanese inns). There are also hotels around Kamoike Pond, making it a convenient base for sightseeing.
You can choose from a variety of options to suit your travel style, including hot spring ryokans overlooking Sakurajima and conveniently located hotels near Kagoshima Chuo Station.
Experience Kagoshima’s History and Culture
The Shimazu Family and Kagoshima
The Shimazu family, who were involved in the founding of Hie Shrine, were a prestigious family that ruled Satsuma for approximately 700 years, from the Kamakura period to the Meiji Restoration. Hie Shrine, founded during the time of the 23rd head of the family, Shimazu Munenobu, is a testament to the Shimazu family’s prayers for the peace and well-being of their people.
Many historical sites related to the Shimazu family remain in Kagoshima City, making it a great place for historical walks.
A Faith Rooted in the Community
Hie Shrine is not a large-scale tourist shrine, but a tutelary shrine that has been cherished by the local people for generations. Therefore, you will often see locals visiting the shrine on a daily basis, allowing you to feel the connection between the lives of the people of Kagoshima and their faith.
Points to Note When Visiting Hie Shrine
Preparations
- Goshuincho: Bring your own if you wish to receive a Goshuin (shrine stamp).
- Camera: For commemorative photos with Otafuku-san (the goddess of good fortune).
- Comfortable Shoes: Wear footwear suitable for walking around the shrine grounds.
- Map App: As the shrine is located in a residential area, a smartphone map app is convenient.
Attire for Visiting
Casual attire is acceptable, but it is desirable to dress respectfully, keeping in mind that it is a sacred place.
Time Required
The shrine grounds are not very large, so 30 minutes to an hour should be sufficient for worship and exploring the grounds. Plan your visit to include time for taking photos and admiring the sacred tree.
Summary | Let’s Go Meet the Smiling Otafuku
Hie Shrine in Kamoike, Kagoshima City, is a historic shrine that has been loved by the local people since the mid-Edo period. The gentle smile of the giant Otafuku statue, measuring 3 meters in both height and width, brings good fortune and peace to visitors.
It offers blessings for safe childbirth and fertility, boasts a sacred tree approximately 300 years old, and has a tranquil atmosphere nestled in a quiet residential area. While not heavily advertised as a tourist destination, this is precisely what preserves its simple and warm atmosphere, which is its greatest charm.
When visiting Kagoshima, in addition to famous tourist spots like Sakurajima and Sengan-en Garden, be sure to visit Hie Shrine, a place deeply rooted in the local community. The smile of Otafuku is sure to bring you good fortune.
Its convenient location, just a 4-minute walk from JR Kishiba Station, is another attractive feature. You can easily stop by during your Kagoshima sightseeing. This shrine is highly recommended for those who collect Goshuin (temple/shrine stamps), those praying for safe childbirth or fertility, and those who want to experience the history and culture of Kagoshima.
“Fortune comes to those who smile”—may wonderful fortune come to you, along with the smile of Otafuku-san.
