Hie Shrine (日枝神社, Hie Jinja) is one of central Tokyo’s grandest shrines, located in the Akasaka district. Originally the protective shrine of Edo Castle (the Tokugawa shogunate’s seat of power, now the Imperial Palace), Hie remains one of the most spiritually authoritative shrines in Tokyo.

The principal deity is Oyamakui no Kami, a deity of mountains and a manifestation of Okuninushi’s lineage. As such, Hie has long been venerated for prosperity, protection, and matchmaking. The shrine is famous for its symbol — the sacred monkey (Masaru) — which is treated as a divine messenger and a charm against misfortune.

For matchmaking, Hie’s most distinctive charm is the Masaru-mamori (Monkey Charm) — said to ward off the “misfortune” that prevents love from forming.