Musashi Ichinomiya Hikawa Jinja
Map
Musashi Ichinomiya Hikawa Jinja stands in Omiya Ward, Saitama, and is a distinguished ancient shrine with a history of more than 2,400 years as the Ichinomiya of Musashi Province. It enshrines Susanoo no Mikoto and Inadahime no Mikoto, a divine couple known as deities of matchmaking, and is known for blessings of good relationships. The long approach, about 2 km from the first torii gate to the main hall, is impressive.
Shrine Info
- Enshrined Deity
- Susanoo no Mikoto; Inadahime no Mikoto; Onamuchi no Mikoto
- Founded
- Kosho 3 (tradition)
- Annual Festival
- Reitaisai (August); Tokaichi (Tenth-Day Market) (December)
History & Origins
Said to have been founded in the 3rd year of Emperor Kosho's reign, the name 'Omiya' is said to derive from this shrine (the 'great shrine'). It was deeply revered by warlords, and successive powerful figures such as Minamoto no Yoritomo, Ashikaga Takauji and Tokugawa Ieyasu worshipped and made offerings here. Emperor Meiji also visited in person.
Highlights
The approach, about 2 km long and lined on both sides with about 150 zelkova trees, is impressive and is also called the 'finest approach in Kanto'. The natural environment of the grounds, centered on the 'Shinchi' pond, is also worth seeing. Worshippers come from across the country to obtain the matchmaking amulets.
Visitor Guide
It is about a 15-minute walk from Omiya Station on the JR and Tobu lines. Walking from Omiya Station along the approach lets you enjoy the atmosphere leading up to the shrine. Goshuin and offerings are available at the shrine office from 8:30 to 17:00 (varies by season).
Best Season
From New Year's Eve through the first three days of the New Year it is busy with first-visit worshippers. The zelkova foliage along the approach in November is also magnificent. The approach in the fresh greenery of May is also recommended.
Annual Events
- August
Reitaisai (Grand Annual Festival)
The largest festival of the year, beginning on August 1. Various rituals are held, including a portable shrine procession and the Kensen no Gi (food offering ceremony).
- December
Tokaichi (Oyusai)
A market similar to the Tori no Ichi, held on December 10. Auspicious items such as rakes are lined up, and it is a seasonal sight of the year-end.
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