⛩️ Kawagoe Hachiman Shrine

In the 3rd year of Chōgen (1030), during the reign of Emperor Go-Sanjō, an ancient shrine was built by Minamoto no Yoritsune, the governor of Kai. It is said that in the first year of Chōgen (1928), during the "Heike Tadaaki Rebellion," Minamoto no Yoritsune came here to pray for victory in battle and bravely charged into the enemy camp to quell the uprising. In gratitude for the protection he received, he constructed the shrine at this location. Therefore, Kawagoe Hachiman Shrine is regarded as a place that can bless success and victory, and it is often visited by students and athletes seeking good fortune. The giant ginkgo tree standing in the shrine's grounds is a symbol of the shrine. Upon closer inspection, one can see that it is formed by the connection of a male and female tree. Planted in 1933, the two trees have merged over the years, giving rise to a romantic legend. It is said that touching the ginkgo tree brings blessings, and many women visit specifically to pray for good relationships. Additionally, within the shrine grounds, there is a worship of Minbu Inari (also known as Sumo Inari), famous for protecting "foot and waist health," and it is adorned with the footprints of marathon runner Yūki Kawauchi, who holds a Guinness World Record.

The samurai who once prayed here successfully quelled a rebellion, and thus is regarded as a protector of qualification and victory. The sacred tree "Married Ginkgo," formed by the merging of two ginkgo trees over many years, symbolizes the shrine. It enshrines the rare "Eye" deity, believed to bless healing from eye diseases and achieving insight. It is a famous spot for viewing hydrangeas, which are especially beautiful under the illumination of lanterns at night.