Hirota Shrine, Shinto shrine in Nishinomiya, Japan.
Hirota Shrine is a Shinto place of worship in Nishinomiya, Japan, recognizable by its traditional wooden construction with raised floors and simple roof forms. Covered pathways link the individual buildings, and the entire area is surrounded by trees and gardens that lend calm to the religious structures.
The shrine emerged in the 3rd century when Empress Jinguu designated this site for worship upon her return from the Korean Peninsula. This foundation was recorded in the Nihonshoki, the oldest official history book of Japan from the year 720.
The name of this place stems from ancient times and connects to Amaterasu, the central deity in Shintoism, who is worshipped here. Believers visit the shrine regularly for prayers and personal concerns, bowing before the wooden altars and leaving offerings.
Buses from Hankyu Nishinomiya-kitaguchi Station run regularly to the shrine, and the ride takes only a few minutes. The grounds can be entered freely, and visitors should pay attention to the gravel paths that require comfortable footwear.
Around 20,000 kobanomitsuba azaleas bloom here in early April and cover the gardens with white and pink blossoms. This plant species bears its name because of the three small leaves on each branch that distinguish it from other azalea varieties.
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