Hibita Shrine

Overview

Hibita Shrine stands in the Sannomiya district of Isehara City, Kanagawa Prefecture, and is regarded as one of the oldest shrines in the old province of Sagami. Once ranked as a gosha, it is today a shrine that receives offerings through the Kanagawa Prefecture Shrine Agency. Anciently called Kanmuri Daimyojin, it has long been affectionately known to locals as Sannomiya-sama, and the very place name Sannomiya derives from the shrine's rank as the third shrine of old Sagami.

Highlights

• ●The dignified halls of one of Sagami's oldest-ranked shrines
• ●Its heritage as one of the Five Shrines of Sagami joining the Kokufu-sai
• ●The cherished old names Kanmuri Daimyojin and Sannomiya-sama
• ●A calm precinct framed by farmland and wooded foothills

History

The Engishiki Jinmyocho, compiled in 927, lists a Hibita Shrine among the thirteen official shrines of Sagami Province, and this shrine is considered one of the candidates identified with that entry. Its ties to Sagami's traditions run deep: it is counted among the Five Shrines of Sagami that take part in the Konomachi (Kokufu-sai) festival held each May 5th on Mount Kamisoroi in Oiso. Its standing as the third shrine offers a valuable window into the region's long history.

Map

35.4013, 139.2839 · Wikidata

Suggested itinerary

1. 1Enter the grounds and pay respects at the halls that carry its history as the third shrine
2. 2Wander the precinct while reflecting on the origin of the Sannomiya place name
3. 3In early May, extend the trip to the Kokufu-sai on Mount Kamisoroi in Oiso
4. 4Take in the surrounding foothills and farmland to enjoy Isehara's countryside

Did you know?

💡 The place name Sannomiya comes from the shrine itself, and it has been called Sannomiya-sama since ancient times. The old title Kanmuri Daimyojin also speaks to the long history this shrine has walked.

Nearby spots