TOC
Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine (Kawagoe City, Saitama Prefecture) is a shrine that has been loved by local people since ancient times, and is particularly famous for its matchmaking (prayer for good relationships). Legend has it that it was founded over 1,500 years ago, and it has been deeply connected to Kawagoe's history and culture since the Edo period. The quiet grounds surrounded by trees and the tranquil scenery of the pond and approach to the shrine are attractive, and its easy access from the city center makes it a popular spot for tourists as well. Seasonal events such as the "Enmusubi Wind Chime" held in the summer are also famous.
Highlights
- Matchmaking Shrine: Many visitors pray for good relationships and success in love, and there is a wide selection of charms and votive plaques related to matchmaking.
- Enmusubi Wind Chimes (Summer Event): Colorful wind chimes are displayed in the temple grounds, and in the evening they are lit up, creating a fantastical atmosphere. This event is popular with many photography enthusiasts and tourists.
- Approach and torii gate: The tranquil approach with its groves of trees and the quaint torii gate are perfect for a stroll, and you can enjoy the scenery throughout the four seasons.
- Ema and charms: We have a selection of offerings that are popular with women, including highly designed matchmaking charms and "love fortunes."
- The pond and garden scenery on the temple grounds: The tranquil waterside and planted scenery are photogenic and are also recommended as a resting spot.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Nearest station: Accessible from Hon-Kawagoe Station (Hon-Kawagoe) on the Seibu Shinjuku Line or Kawagoe Station on the JR and Tobu lines.
- Walking: Approximately 15-20 minutes on foot from Hon-Kawagoe Station, and approximately 20-30 minutes on foot from Kawagoe Station (depending on walking route and speed).
- Bus: From Kawagoe Station or Honkawagoe Station, you can take the city loop bus or local bus to the bus stop around Hikawa Shrine. During the tourist season, the Koedo Loop Bus is also convenient.
- Taxi/Bicycle: It's about a 5-10 minute taxi ride from the station. Kawagoe is a convenient city for renting bicycles and getting around the city, so combining your visit with cycling is also recommended.
- Parking: The shrine's dedicated parking lot may have limited space. We recommend using public transportation, especially during peak periods.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Regular worship only: 30 minutes to 1 hour (including worship, receiving amulets, and strolling around the grounds)
- During events such as wind chimes: 1-2 hours (including viewing the exhibits and taking photos)
- Set with sightseeing in the surrounding Kawagoe area (storehouse-style streets, Toki no Kane Bell, etc.): Half a day to a full day
Nearby spots
- Kurazukuri Street: A street lined with merchant houses that retains the atmosphere of the Edo and Meiji periods. It is a tourist center with many souvenir shops and cafes.
- Tokinokane (Bell of Time): A symbolic bell tower of Kawagoe. A popular photo spot.
- Kashiya Yokocho: A street lined with traditional candy stores and Japanese sweet shops, where you can enjoy sampling the sweets while walking around.
- Kitain: A historic temple with beautiful gardens and historical buildings.
- Kawagoe Castle Honmaru Palace: A historic facility located on the Kawagoe sightseeing route.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Crowds: The shrine gets extremely crowded during the summer "Enmusubi Wind Chime" period, Golden Week, the Kawagoe Festival (October), and New Year's visits. Please allow plenty of time for prayers and photography during busy periods.
- Worship etiquette: Please observe basic shrine etiquette, such as bowing once before passing through the torii gate, purifying yourself at the temizuya (purification fountain), bowing twice, clapping twice, and bowing once more at the worship hall. Please refrain from using cameras in areas where photography is prohibited or during festivals.
- Consideration when taking photos: Please be mindful not to include other worshippers or people praying in your photos, and avoid shouting or causing a nuisance within the temple grounds.
- Weather and season: Be aware of the heat and crowds during the summer wind chime season. In winter, take precautions against the cold. In some places, the grounds can become slippery when it rains.
- How to deal with crowds on the way: On weekends and during events, it will be easier to use public transportation or visit at a different time.
Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine has a spacious grounds and a unique charm based on the theme of "fate," making it one of the highlights of sightseeing in Kawagoe. Planning a visit to the shrine and a stroll around the surrounding area will make for a more fulfilling trip.
