Kawagoe Hikawa Jinja
Map
Kawagoe Hikawa Jinja stands in Kawagoe City, Saitama Prefecture, an ancient shrine with a history of nearly 1,500 years. It enshrines five deities, including the married deities Susanoo no Mikoto and Kushinadahime no Mikoto, and is known nationwide as a shrine for matchmaking and marital harmony. It is also visited by many worshippers as a sightseeing spot of 'Little Edo' Kawagoe.
Shrine Info
- Enshrined Deity
- Susanoo no Mikoto; Kushinadahime no Mikoto; Onamuchi no Mikoto; Ashinazuchi no Mikoto; Tenazuchi no Mikoto
- Founded
- 541 (Kinmei 2) (tradition)
- Annual Festival
- Kawagoe Hikawa Matsuri (October)
History & Origins
It is said to have begun in 541 (the 2nd year of Emperor Kinmei), when a nocturnal glow over the Iruma River was taken as the divine light of the Hikawa deity and the deity was invited to the site. In the Edo period it received the reverence of the Kawagoe domain lords and became the guardian deity of the castle town as the 'Sovereign Guardian of Kawagoe.' The Kawagoe Hikawa Festival in October is designated a nationally Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property.
Highlights
Many worshippers come seeking matchmaking blessings, and the grounds offer a rich variety of matchmaking-themed items such as matchmaking beads, ema votive tablets and water fortunes. The 'water fortune' floated in the small stream running through the grounds is especially popular. At the Kawagoe Hikawa Festival in October, magnificent festival floats parade through the city.
Visitor Guide
About 20 minutes on foot or by bus from Hon-Kawagoe Station (Seibu Shinjuku Line) or Kawagoe Station (Tobu Tojo Line). Visitors commonly combine the visit with a stroll around 'Ichibangai,' where the kura-zukuri warehouse-style streets remain. Worship on the grounds is free.
Best Season
The Kawagoe Hikawa Festival (Kawagoe Festival) in October is the busiest time. Spring, with cherry blossoms, and autumn, with foliage, are also good seasons to visit.
Annual Events
- October
Kawagoe Hikawa Matsuri (Kawagoe Festival)
The grand annual festival held on the third Saturday and Sunday of October. It is an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property of Japan, known for its parade of gorgeous floats.
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