7-7 Taisha-cho, Nishinomiya, Hyogo Prefecture
Rating
Cost per person
¥500
Hirota Shrine, featured in the Nihon Shoki, is an ancient shrine easily accessible by bus from Hankyu Nishinomiya-Kitaguchi or Hanshin Nishinomiya Stations. The main hall is built in the Shinmei-zukuri style. The shrine is renowned for its approximately 20,000 wild koba-no-mitsuba azaleas, a designated prefectural natural monument, which bloom in spring, painting the mountains in vibrant reddish-purple hues. It's also known as the shrine where the Hanshin Tigers baseball team prays for victory before each season. Visit in early April to witness the azaleas in full bloom. The shrine offers a serene atmosphere and a glimpse into local religious traditions.
Cultural Property: Prefectural Designated Natural Monument (Wild Kobano Mitsuba Azaleas). Founded in the Yamato period.