森の奥に佇む古社。滋賀県・比婆神社の静寂と磐座

Hiba Shrine is a unique and ancient Shinto shrine known for its deep connection to Japanese mythology and its challenging, secluded location deep in the mountains. 1. Location and Access The shrine is located in the mountains near the Oori (男鬼) settlement in Hikone City, Shiga Prefecture, situated near the peak of Mt. Hiba (Hiba-yama), at an altitude of approximately 670 meters (2,200 ft). Remote Location: It is often described as a "hidden shrine" or a shrine that is difficult to visit due to its remote, mountainous setting. The Approach Road: The path from the torii gate at the foot of the mountain up to the main sanctuary is extremely narrow and steep. Although technically passable by car, it includes sections with a steep gradient of up to 33%. Drivers must exercise extreme caution due to the narrow width and potential for falling rocks. Many visitors approach the trip as a serious hike or climb. 2. The Deity and Mythological Significance The primary enshrined deity (kami) is Izanami-no-Okami (伊邪那美大神). The Mother Goddess: Izanami is one of the most crucial deities in the Japanese creation myth, known for creating the Japanese islands (Kuniumi) and numerous other kami along with her husband, Izanagi-no-Okami. The Hiba-yama Connection: The name of the mountain, "Hiba-yama," holds a significant connection to the Kojiki (Records of Ancient Matters). The text states that after Izanami died, she was buried on a Hiba Mountain on the border of Izumo and Hōki Provinces (now in the Chūgoku region). The existence of a mountain with the same name dedicated to her in Shiga has intrigued historians and worshipers. Proximity to Izanagi's Shrine: The presence of Hiba Shrine (Izanami) in Shiga is often noted alongside the nearby Taga Taisha (多賀大社), which enshrines her husband, Izanagi-no-Okami. This proximity may suggest a localized tradition regarding the Divine Couple. 3. History and Worship While the exact founding date (sōshi) is unknown, the shrine's origins are believed to be very ancient. Mountain and Rock Worship: The roots of Hiba Shrine lie in ancient Mountain Worship (Sangaku Shinkō) and Megalith Worship (Kyoseki Shinkō). The original object of worship was the Iwakura (磐座), a sacred rock/boulder located behind the main hall, and possibly a grotto/cave on the mountaintop. The Mountain God: For centuries, it was known locally as "Yama-gami-san" (山神さん), or the "Mountain God," revered by local villagers. Historically, it was a site of women's prohibition (nyonin kinsei) due to its nature as a sacred mountain peak. Architectural History: Records indicate a shrine structure existed before the Hōreki era (1751–1764). The current main hall (Honden) is built in the Shinmei-zukuri (神明造り) style (a simple, ancient style) and was rebuilt in the late Taishō period (early 20th century). Pilgrimage: In the past, the shrine was highly regarded for its efficacy (reigen) and drew pilgrims not only from the local region (Kohoku, Kotō) but also from further areas like Sekigahara. In summary, Hiba Shrine is a powerful spiritual site that blends deep mythological lore with the primitive reverence for nature, embodied by the sacred mountain and its mighty Iwakura.