Hirano Shrine or Hirano Jinja

by Andrew Atkeison

Shinto is the oldest religion of Japan. Unlike Buddhism which was imported from China, Shinto has it’s origins in Japan. There are thousands of Shinto shrines located around the country. Shinto is a religion that celebrates the forces and spirits of nature together with human endeavors. There are many ceremonies throughout the year that celebrate the changing seasons, the harvest, wealth production, fertility, sake making, the planting of rice, the birth of children and other events.  Shinto has a pantheon of gods and goddesses that are thought to preside over the natural world and are summoned to the assistance of human undertakings. Shintoism fosters many diverse beliefs in supernatural powers, divination and spirits.

Sacred Rope over the entry way gate to Hirano Jinja

“Shinto sacred places are typically marked with a shimenawa, which is a special plaited rope and shime which are strips of white paper. These are located at the entrances of holy places to ward off evil spirits, or placed around trees/objects to indicate presence of kami or sacred spirits. Made of rice straw or hemp, the rope is called nawa and the pieces of white paper that are cut into strips and hung from these ropes are called shime or gohei; they symbolize purity in the Shintō faith.” (www.onmarkproductions.com viewed on 3/7/2016)

Gate way guardian

“Located in nothewest kyoto, Hirano Shrine was established in the year 794 when the capital was transferred to Heian-kyo (the ancient name for Kyoto) from Nagaoka-kyo. The shrine has long enjoyed a reelationship with Japan’s Imperial Household and royal family. The shrine however is more famous today for its lovely cherry trees. Hiranohas has held a cherry blossom festival every year since 985. The first of these festivals was held during the reign of Emperor Kazan.

Today it is among the most popular spots in Kyoto for viewing the trees, singing, and drinking. Because of its proximity to Ritsumeikan University, many groups from the college revel under the blossoms.

The actual festival – as opposed to the informal crowds that gather – begins in the morning with a ceremony at the mausoleum of Emperor Kazan. Then, in the afternoon, a procession moves from the shrine circulating through the neighboring area and then back. The festival is held on the second Sunday in April. “     (www.japanvisitor.com viewed on 3/7/2016)