Hiyoshi Shrine (Kanekome-cho, Gonome, Fukushima City, Fukushima Prefecture) Complete Guide | Deities, Access, and Goshuin Information
Hiyoshi Shrine, located in Kanekome-cho, Gonome, Fukushima City, Fukushima Prefecture, is a historical shrine deeply rooted in the local community. This article comprehensively introduces detailed information useful for visiting Hiyoshi Shrine, including its enshrined deities, location, access methods, and Goshuin information.
Basic Information on Hiyoshi Shrine
Hiyoshi Shrine is located in the Gonome district of Fukushima City, Fukushima Prefecture, and is one of the important shrines that attract the faith of local residents. Situated in a quiet residential area, it is known as a place where visitors can worship in a peaceful atmosphere.
Location and Address
The official location is as follows:
- Address: 4-1 Kanekomi-cho, Gonome, Fukushima City, Fukushima Prefecture
- Postal Code: 〒960-8161
- Corporate Number: 1380005000898
The Gonome area is located in the southern part of Fukushima City and is a mixed area of residential and agricultural land. Hiyoshi Shrine has long been cherished by local residents as the guardian deity of this area.
Latitude, Longitude, and Map Code Information
The precise location information is as follows:
- Latitude and Longitude: 37.73811163 degrees North, 140.46206849 degrees East
- Map Code: 475 265 205*64
- Elevation: Approximately 64 meters (above sea level)
This information is useful when searching using car navigation systems or smartphone map apps. With the latest navigation systems, you can pinpoint the exact location by entering the map code.
Deities and Divine Virtues
Deities
The name Hiyoshi Shrine indicates that it belongs to the lineage of Hiyoshi, Hie, and Sanno shrines, of which there are approximately 3,800 nationwide. The following deities are generally enshrined in Hiyoshi shrine lineages:
- Ōyamakui-no-kami: The guardian deity of Mount Hiei
- Ōnamuchi-no-kami: Another name for Ōkuninushi-no-kami
These deities are known as the enshrined deities of the lineage of shrines with Hiyoshi Taisha in Ōtsu City, Shiga Prefecture, as its head shrine.
Divine Virtues and Blessings
Shrines of the Hiyoshi Shrine lineage are believed to offer the following divine virtues:
- National Peace and Security: Peace and tranquility of the nation
- Abundant Harvest: Prayers for a bountiful harvest
- Family Safety: Health and safety of the family
- Business Prosperity: Development and prosperity of businesses
- Healing from Illness: Recovery from illness and maintenance of health
- Protection from Misfortune and Evil: Protection from disasters
As the local guardian shrine, it attracts worshippers with various wishes.
Access Information
Detailed information on how to access Hiyoshi Shrine by train, bus, and car is provided below.
Nearest Station and Train Access
The nearest station is Minami-Fukushima Station on the JR Tohoku Main Line.
- Distance from Minami-Fukushima Station: Approximately 1.6 kilometers
- Walking Time: Approximately 20-24 minutes
- Line: JR Tohoku Main Line (Tohoku Line)
Minami-Fukushima Station is the next station to Fukushima Station, and local trains stop there. The route from the station to the shrine is flat and passes through a residential area, making it accessible on foot. However, since it takes more than 20 minutes on foot, you may want to consider using a bus or taxi.
Nearest Bus Stop and Route
The nearest bus stop is the “Nitto-mae” bus stop.
- Distance from Nitto-mae Bus Stop: Approximately 103 meters
- Walking Time: Approximately 2 minutes
- Operating Company: Fukushima Kotsu
The bus stop is very close to the shrine, accessible in about 2 minutes on foot. If you are using a bus from central Fukushima City or Fukushima Station, please use Fukushima Kotsu’s route buses. However, it is recommended to check the latest information on bus schedules and service frequencies on the Fukushima Kotsu official website. ### Access by Car
Access from major roads when visiting by car:
- From Tohoku Expressway, Fukushima-Nishi IC: Approximately 15 minutes
- From Tohoku Expressway, Fukushima-Iizaka IC: Approximately 20 minutes
- From National Route 13: Proceed towards the city center and enter the Gonome area.
The area around the shrine is a residential area, so some roads are narrow. Please drive carefully. It is recommended to check parking availability in advance.
Map Information around Hiyoshi Shrine
Surrounding Environment
The Gonome area, where Hiyoshi Shrine is located, is a residential area in the southern part of Fukushima City. The following facilities are located in the surrounding area:
- Residential Area: A quiet residential area spreads out.
- Agricultural Land: There are scattered fields and farms in the surrounding area.
- Commercial Facilities: Various shops are located along National Route 13.
- Educational Facilities: Elementary and junior high schools are located nearby.
How to Check on a Map
The following map services are convenient for checking the location of Hiyoshi Shrine:
- Google Maps: Search for “Hiyoshi Shrine, Gonome, Fukushima City”
- Yahoo! Maps: Detailed map information and route search are available.
- Mapion: Comprehensive information on surrounding facilities is also available.
- NAVITIME: Convenient for route guidance using public transportation.
If using a smartphone map app, entering the address “4-1 Kanekomi-cho, Gonome, Fukushima City, Fukushima Prefecture” will display the accurate location.
Goshuin (Shrine Seal) Information
Regarding the Issuance of Goshuin
Please note the following regarding the issuance of Goshuin at Hiyoshi Shrine:
The method of issuing Goshuin may vary depending on the size of the shrine and the availability of staff at the shrine office. Generally, smaller shrines may have the following cases:
- Issuance at the Main Shrine: If the Goshuin is managed by another shrine, you may be able to receive it at the main shrine.
- In Case of Absence: The shrine office may not be open at all times.
- Prior Contact: If you want to be sure to receive a Goshuin, it is recommended to check in advance.
Regarding Electronic Goshuin
In recent years, some shrines have made it possible to obtain electronic Goshuin. It may also be possible to obtain electronic Goshuin at Hiyoshi Shrine through online services. For details, please check Goshuin information sites such as “Yaoyorozu no Kami” (Eight Million Gods).
About Hiyoshi Shrines in Fukushima Prefecture
Number of Shrines in Fukushima Prefecture
There are 243 shrines in Fukushima City, Fukushima Prefecture, and Hiyoshi Shrine is one of them. Nationwide, there are 848 shrines named “Hiyoshi Shrine,” making it a relatively common name.
Differences from Other Hiyoshi Shrines
There are several Hiyoshi Shrines within Fukushima Prefecture:
- Hiyoshi Shrine (Gounome, Fukushima City): The shrine featured in this article
- Hiyoshi Shrine (Hirano, Iizaka-machi, Fukushima City): Located in the Iizaka Onsen area
- Hiyoshi Shrine (Fukuyama-cho, Koriyama City): Known for its connection to Sakanoue no Tamuramaro
Each has a different history and characteristics, so it is important to confirm the exact location before visiting.
Nearby Shrines and Temples
Major Shrines in the Southern Fukushima City Area
The following shrines and temples are located around Hiyoshi Shrine:
- Toriyano Shrine: The tutelary shrine of the Toriyano district in Fukushima City
- Hachiman Shrine: Shrines of Hachiman worship located in various districts
- Inari Shrine: A shrine worshipped as the god of business prosperity
Fukushima City has numerous shrines, each conveying the history and culture of the region. When enjoying a shrine visit, visiting multiple shrines allows you to experience the diversity of local beliefs.
Manners and Etiquette for Visiting Shrines
Basic Manners for Visiting Shrines
Here are some basic manners for visiting shrines:
- How to Pass Through the Torii Gate: Bow before passing through the torii gate. Since the center of the approach is considered the path of the gods, walk along the side.
- How to purify yourself at the water basin:
- Hold the ladle in your right hand and purify your left hand.
- Switch the ladle to your left hand and purify your right hand.
- Switch the ladle back to your right hand, receive water in your left hand, and rinse your mouth.
- Finally, hold the ladle upright and purify the handle.
- Worship at the main hall:
- Bow lightly before placing your offering.
- If there is a bell, ring it.
- Perform the two bows, two claps, one bow ritual.
Attire for worship
For everyday worship, no special attire is necessary, but it is good to consider the following points:
- Clean attire: Dress appropriately, as it is a sacred place.
- Modest attire: Avoid clothing that exposes too much skin.
- Remove your hat: It is polite to remove your hat before passing through the torii gate.
Annual events and festivals
Typical Annual Events at Shinto Shrines
Many Shinto shrines hold the following annual events:
- Hatsumode (January 1st-3rd): New Year’s visit to the shrine
- Setsubun Festival (around February 3rd): Exorcism rituals such as bean-throwing
- Spring Grand Festival (Spring): Grand spring festival
- Natsukoshi no Harae (June 30th): A Shinto ritual to purify oneself of the impurities accumulated over the past six months
- Autumn Grand Festival (Autumn): Grand autumn festival, harvest thanksgiving
- Shichi-Go-San (around November 15th): Celebrating the growth of children
- Yoshikoshi no Oharae (December 31st): Purification of the impurities accumulated over the year
For specific festival dates at Hiyoshi Shrine, it is recommended to check local bulletin boards or Fukushima City’s public relations materials.
Historical Background of Hiyoshi Shrine
About Hiyoshi Faith
Hiyoshi Shrine is a lineage of shrines with Hiyoshi Taisha in Otsu City, Shiga Prefecture as its head shrine. Hiyoshi Taisha is located at the foot of Mount Hiei and has long been revered by the imperial court as a guardian shrine of the northeast (the “demon’s gate”) of Heian-kyo (Kyoto).
When Enryaku-ji Temple, the head temple of the Tendai sect, was established on Mount Hiei, Hiyoshi Taisha spread throughout the country as the guardian deity of Enryaku-ji Temple and as the center of Sanno faith. Therefore, Hiyoshi Shrine is sometimes called “Sanno-san.”
Spread to the Fukushima Region
Some Hiyoshi Shrines in Fukushima Prefecture are said to have been established in connection with Sakanoue no Tamuramaro‘s conquest of Oshu (northern Japan). According to legend, during the Enryaku era (782-806), Sakanoue no Tamuramaro, who pacified the Tohoku region as the Seii Taishogun (Commander-in-Chief of the Expeditionary Force against the Barbarians), invited a divided spirit from Hiyoshi Taisha Shrine in Omi Province (present-day Shiga Prefecture).
The Hiyoshi Shrine in Gonome, Fukushima City, may also have a similar historical background, but further investigation is needed to determine its specific founding date and history.
About the Gonome District, Fukushima City
Regional Characteristics
The Gonome district is located in the southern part of Fukushima City and has the following characteristics:
- Geographical Location: Approximately 3-4 kilometers south of the center of Fukushima City
- Topography: East bank of the Abukuma River, relatively flat terrain
- Industry: A mixed area of residential and agricultural land
- Transportation: Convenient access to National Route 13
Regional History
The place name Gonome has existed since ancient times, and it developed as an agricultural area during the Edo period. Since the Meiji era, as Fukushima City’s urban area has expanded, it has gradually become a residential area. Currently, it is a region where new residential areas are spreading while still retaining traces of its traditional rural character.
Notes on Visiting the Shrine
Visiting Hours
Shrines are generally open for worship 24 hours a day, but please note the following:
- Visiting during daylight hours: For safety reasons, we recommend visiting during the daytime.
- Visiting at night: Lighting may be limited.
- Shrine Office Hours: If you wish to obtain a Goshuin (shrine stamp) or other items, daytime hours are recommended.
Parking and Bicycle Parking
Small shrines may not have dedicated parking. Please note the following:
- No on-street parking: Please be considerate of nearby residents.
- Nearby paid parking: Please use nearby parking lots as needed.
- Use of public transportation: Please consider using buses and other public transportation.
Regarding photography
Photography is generally permitted at shrines, but please observe the following manners:
- Inside the main hall: Photography may be prohibited.
- Consideration for other worshippers: Please be careful not to include other worshippers in your photos.
- Use of tripods: Please refrain from using them in crowded or narrow spaces.
- Flash photography: Please be considerate so as not to detract from the sacred atmosphere.
Fukushima City Tourist Information
Tourist Spots Around Hiyoshi Shrine
Tourist spots in Fukushima City that you can visit in conjunction with Hiyoshi Shrine:
- Fukushima Racecourse: A racecourse of the Japan Racing Association (JRA).
- Azuma General Sports Park: A vast park facility.
- Fukushima City Folk House Garden: An open-air museum with relocated old folk houses.
- Shiki no Sato: Rural park, local agricultural product sales
Hot Springs in Fukushima City
Fukushima City is also famous for its hot springs:
- Iizaka Onsen: A historic hot spring resort in northern Fukushima City
- Tsuchiyu Onsen: A mountainous hot spring resort in western Fukushima City
- Takayu Onsen: A hot spring resort known for its milky white sulfur springs
Enjoying a hot spring tour in conjunction with visiting shrines is highly recommended.
Summary
Hiyoshi Shrine, located in Kanekomi-cho, Gonome, Fukushima City, Fukushima Prefecture, is a historical shrine deeply rooted in the community. It is easily accessible, approximately a 20-minute walk from JR Minami-Fukushima Station or a 2-minute walk from the Nitto-mae bus stop.
As a shrine belonging to the Hiyoshi faith lineage, it is believed to bestow divine blessings such as national peace, abundant harvests, and family safety, and is revered by local residents. Located in a quiet residential area, it offers a peaceful atmosphere for worship.
Fukushima City boasts 243 shrines, each preserving the history and culture of the region. A visit to Hiyoshi Shrine offers a glimpse into the local faith and culture.
When visiting, please observe basic shrine etiquette, be considerate of local residents, and pray in a calm and respectful manner. If you wish to receive a Goshuin (shrine stamp), it is advisable to confirm the issuance method beforehand.
When visiting Fukushima City, we highly recommend visiting Hiyoshi Shrine and experiencing the region’s history and faith.
