Hie Shrine
日枝神社

Hie Shrine is a major Shinto shrine in central Tokyo, sitting on a hill between Akasaka and Nagatacho. It’s best known for its bright red torii tunnel and its guardian monkey statues, since Sarutahiko and a protective monkey spirit are part of its tradition. The shrine has strong ties to the Edo period, when it served as the protector of the city. Today it hosts the Sanno Festival, one of Tokyo’s three great festivals.

Even though it is surrounded by government buildings and offices, the grounds feel calm, with shaded paths and a spacious main courtyard.