Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine
Kanto Region
Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine is a historic Shinto shrine located in Kawagoe, Saitama Prefecture, Japan. Established in 541 during Emperor Kinmei's reign, it has served as the guardian shrine of the Kawagoe castle town since 1457. The shrine is dedicated to five deities forming two married couples, symbolizing marital harmony and family fortune, making it a popular site for prayers related to marriage and relationships. Architecturally, it features an elaborately carved main building donated in 1849 by the lord Matsudaira Naritsune, now an important cultural asset of Saitama. The shrine's 15-meter-high wooden torii gate is one of the tallest in Japan, bearing a framed inscription by Katsu Kaishu. Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine is famous for its Reitaisai festival held every October 14, which is the origin of the Kawagoe Festival - a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage event with elaborately decorated floats parading through the historic castle town. Additionally, the shrine hosts a Wind Chime Festival during summer months, displaying thousands of wind chimes inscribed with visitors' wishes. Its spiritual significance and rich cultural events make it a unique and inspiring destination for visitors.
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Tip: Visitors are encouraged to attend the Reitaisai festival on October 14 and the Kawagoe Festival on the third weekend of October to experience the shrine's cultural vibrancy. The Wind Chime Festival from July to September offers a serene atmosphere with thousands of fūrin (wind chimes). Prayers for good matches are held at 8:08 on the 8th and the 4th Saturday of each month, with the number eight considered auspicious. It is advisable to check the shrine's official website for event schedules and consider purchasing tickets or making reservations in advance for festival participation or special prayers. The shrine grounds are open to all visitors who should observe traditional Shinto etiquette during their visit.
Interesting facts
- •The shrine's 15-meter-high wooden torii gate is among the tallest in Japan.
- •The Reitaisai festival is considered the origin of the Kawagoe Festival, which is a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage event.
- •Thousands of wind chimes with visitors' wishes are displayed during the Wind Chime Festival in summer.
- •The shrine enshrines five gods forming two married couples, making it a popular site for prayers related to marriage and family.
- •The shrine's main building contains elaborate carvings donated by a feudal lord in 1849, designated as an important cultural asset.
History
Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine was founded in 541 during the reign of Emperor Kinmei.
In 1457, with the construction of Kawagoe Castle by Ota Doshin and Ota Dokan, the shrine became the guardian deity of the castle town and the Kawagoe Domain.
The main shrine building, featuring intricate carvings, was donated in 1849 by Matsudaira Naritsune, the lord of Kawagoe Domain.
Over centuries, the shrine has been closely linked to the ruling lords of Kawagoe and has maintained its status as a significant cultural and religious site in the region.
Place Guide
Main Shrine Building1849
The main hall features intricate wood carvings donated by Matsudaira Naritsune in 1849, showcasing Edo period craftsmanship and serving as a designated cultural asset of Saitama Prefecture.
Wooden Torii Gate
Standing 15 meters tall, this wooden torii gate is one of the tallest in Japan and bears a framed inscription written by the famous Japanese naval officer Katsu Kaishu.
Wind Chime Corridor
During summer months, thousands of wind chimes (fūrin) are hung along a corridor within the shrine grounds, each inscribed with visitors' wishes, creating a soothing soundscape and a visually stunning display.
Contact
Phone: 049-224-0589