平殿 · へいでん · shrine_architecture

heiden

The offering hall in a Shinto shrine.

Definition

The heiden is the hall at a Shinto shrine designated for offerings presented to the kami. Typically located adjacent to the haiden, the heiden serves as a space where ritual offerings, such as food or sake, are placed in a ceremonial context. While it is related to the worship practices carried out in the haiden, the heiden specifically focuses on the material expressions of reverence.

Etymology

The term 'heiden' combines 'hei' (flat/level) and 'den' (hall), detailing its architectural characteristic as a flat-roofed building.