Hioka Shrine

Standing in Kakogawa City in Hyogo, Hioka Shrine is a venerable classical shrine boasting a history of about thirteen hundred years. Said to have been founded around the Tempyo era of the Nara period, it has gathered the faith of locals as one of the foremost old shrines of the Harima region.

The chief deity is Ame no Isasahiko no Mikoto. According to shrine tradition, when Inabi no Oiratsume, empress of Emperor Keiko, faced childbirth, this deity prayed for a safe delivery over seven days and seven nights, and twin princes were born safely. From this episode the shrine gained fame as a god of safe childbirth, and even now worshippers come without pause for prayers of safe delivery and first shrine visits for newborns.

Highlights

- The appearance of an old shrine that tells of thirteen centuries of history - The venerable tradition of prayers for an empress safe birth - The deep faith of people wishing for safe birth, conception, and child-rearing - A historical stroll combined with the nearby Hioka imperial tomb

Enjoying the Seasons

On the day of the dog the shrine bustles with worshippers praying for safe childbirth, and during the seasons of first shrine visits and the Shichi-Go-San festival many families can be seen. The grounds keep a calm atmosphere through every season, and in the seasons of cherry blossoms and fresh greenery you can enjoy a leisurely visit.

Access and Basic Information

- Location: Ono, Kakogawacho, Kakogawa City, Hyogo - Access: About 5 minutes on foot from Hioka Station on the JR Kakogawa Line, with parking available - Hours: Grounds open freely, with prayers within the shrine office reception times - Admission: Free, with a separate fee for prayers

A Quick Tip

If you are praying for safe childbirth, visiting on the day of the dog, named for the zodiac, is a long-standing custom. With parking available, visiting by car is reassuring. It is also a fitting shrine for ceremonies wishing for a child growth.