Chichibu Jinja

Map

History & Origins

Said to have been founded in the 10th year of Emperor Sujin's reign, it is one of the oldest shrines in the Chichibu area. It was revered by many warlords, including Takeda Shingen and Tokugawa Ieyasu, and the present shrine buildings were put in order in the Edo period on the orders of Tokugawa Ieyasu. Many of the surviving carvings are the work of master craftsmen of the early Edo period.

Highlights

The carvings on the shrine buildings are elaborately designed, including the three monkeys ('see no evil, speak no evil, hear no evil'), the 'Owl of Hokushin' and the 'Tiger Protecting Her Young', and are worth a look. A sacred zelkova tree, a natural monument, stands in the grounds. The floats and umbrella floats (kasaboko) of the Chichibu Yomatsuri are Important Tangible Folk Cultural Properties of Japan.

Visitor Guide

It is about a 10-minute walk from Chichibu Station on the Seibu Railway and Chichibu Railway, or about a 7-minute walk from Ohanabatake Station on the Chichibu Railway. Goshuin are available at the shrine office from about 9:00 to 17:00.

Best Season

December 2-3, when the Chichibu Yomatsuri is held, is the biggest highlight. In spring (March-April) the cherry blossoms in the grounds are also beautiful, and the New Year period is busy with many worshippers.

Blessings

Annual Events

• December

  Chichibu Yomatsuri (Chichibu Night Festival)

  One of Japan's three great float festivals, held on December 2–3. Magnificent floats, registered as UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage, parade through the city.

• June and December

  Oharaeshiki (Great Purification Ceremony)

  A purification ritual held twice a year, on June 30 and December 30, to purify the impurities of the past half year. Passing through the ring of kaya reeds (chinowa kuguri) is performed.

Travel Plan

Plan Your Trip