Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Koma Shrine is a historic shrine located in Hidaka City, Saitama Prefecture, and has long been known as a place with deep ties to the people of "Koma." According to legend, the shrine was originally established to worship Koma no Jakko (Koma King Jakko), the head of a clan that came from Goguryeo, an ancient kingdom on the Korean Peninsula, as its ancestral deity, and is a shrine that continues to convey the history and culture of the region to the present day.
The grounds are lined with trees with many rings, a charming shrine building, stone lanterns, and other features, creating a calming atmosphere for worship. The shrine is also known for its local festivals and the large number of worshippers who come to pray for blessings such as matchmaking and protection from evil. The surrounding area is dotted with natural beauty and historical sites, and the scenery throughout the seasons (especially in the autumn red spider lilies season) is spectacular.
Highlights
- Main hall and worship hall: The appearance of traditional shrine architecture. You can worship in the calm and dignified grounds.
- Approach and old trees: The old trees and stone lanterns along the approach create a landscape that evokes history.
- Temple seals and amulets: Temple seals are given out at the shrine office, as well as a variety of amulets for matchmaking and protection from evil.
- Festivals and annual festivals: A traditional local festival is held (please check with the shrine for the date).
- Surrounding natural scenery: There are many spots nearby where you can enjoy seasonal flowers and hiking, such as the nearby Kinchakuda rice paddy.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Nearest station: About a 5-10 minute walk from Koma Station on the Seibu Ikebukuro Line. From the station, walk along the approach to the shrine.
- Access from central Tokyo: Take the Seibu Ikebukuro Line directly from Ikebukuro Station to Koma Station (approximately 50-60 minutes, varies depending on the train type).
- Access by car: Accessible via national and prefectural roads. Parking is available within the temple grounds, but due to limited space, we recommend using public transportation during peak seasons.
- Please note: Roads and parking lots will be congested during festivals and the autumn tourist season (such as when the red spider lilies bloom at Kinchakuda), so please allow yourself plenty of time.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Visiting only: 30 minutes to 1 hour (please allow a little extra time if you wish to receive a temple seal or amulet).
- If you include a stroll around the area: 1-2 hours (extend this time if you visit Kinchakudan and other historical sites in the area).
- During festivals and events: Half a day to a full day (depending on the scale of the event and how busy it is).
Nearby spots
- Kinchakuda: A park famous for its red spider lilies (cluster spider lilies), which attract many visitors in autumn (it's within walking distance).
- Komagawa River: A riverside landscape where you can take a leisurely stroll and enjoy the seasonal scenery.
- Nearby hiking trails (e.g., towards Hiwadayama and Monomiyama): Enjoy nature trails and low mountain hikes, and fully enjoy both nature and history (transportation by car or bus is convenient).
- Local museums and old houses: There are many facilities where you can learn about the history and lifestyle of the area (please check opening hours in advance).
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Crowds: The autumn spider lily season, New Year's visits to the shrine, and annual festivals can be extremely crowded. Please consider using public transportation and visiting early in the morning or on a weekday.
- Worship Manners: Please observe basic worship etiquette, such as bowing once when passing through the torii gate, bowing twice in front of the main hall, clapping twice, and bowing once more. Please also follow the signs and restricted areas within the temple grounds.
- Photography: Generally, photography is permitted within the temple grounds, but there are some areas where photography is prohibited, such as during festivals or inside the worship hall. Please follow the instructions of the priests and posted notices.
- Goshuin/Shrine Office: The hours for issuing stamps may be limited (generally between morning and afternoon). Please allow plenty of time as there may be a wait during busy periods.
- Seasonal precautions: In summer, take precautions against the heat (hats and fluids), in winter, take precautions against the cold, and on rainy days, the approach to the shrine can become slippery, so we recommend wearing comfortable shoes. As the area is rich in nature, insect repellent is also effective.
- Bringing pets: Some temples allow pets on their grounds, but please make sure to follow the rules, such as keeping them on a leash and cleaning up their droppings. It's a good idea to check in advance.
We also recommend checking the official website of Koma Shrine or on-site information boards before your visit for the latest information on visiting, festival dates, shrine hours, parking availability, etc. Enjoy a pleasant visit where you can feel the history and nature in a calm atmosphere.
