⛩️ Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine (川越氷川神社)

Located in Kawagoe City, Saitama Prefecture, which is praised as “Little Edo,” the "Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine" is an ancient shrine believed to have been established about 1,500 years ago. The carvings on the main hall are extremely exquisite and have been designated as an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Asset by the national government. The shrine enshrines the “Gods of Five Pillars” (五柱之神). Because the Gods of Five Pillars are considered a family, they are revered as deities who bless family harmony and marital bliss. The shrine is especially famous as a power spot for forming good relationships, attracting many worshippers seeking love and good fortune. In fact, good fortune does not only refer to romantic relationships; it also encompasses various positive interpersonal relationships, such as those with colleagues, friends, and family. Therefore, the shrine offers a variety of relationship-related charms, allowing visitors to find talismans that suit their wishes. One must not miss the “Ema Tunnel” (繪馬隧道) within the shrine grounds. Ema are wooden plaques inscribed with wishes or prayers offered to the shrine, often adorned with drawings. The Ema Tunnel is densely decorated with 30,000 Ema, and worshippers can pass through this space filled with mysterious charm while admiring the various plaques. Visitors can also offer their own Ema in the tunnel, using this opportunity to convey their wishes to the deities.

The Ema Tunnel is one of the highlights, so be sure to experience walking through the Ema Tunnel yourself. Every summer, the "Yukiyaki Wind Chime Festival" is held, a ritual adorned with over 2,000 wind chimes. The two types of Taiyaki fortune slips are very popular: the "One Year Peace Taiyaki Fortune" and the "Love God Taiyaki Fortune." The unique method of drawing fortunes involves using a fishing rod. If you visit early in the morning to pay your respects, you might receive the limited "Yukitsuke Tamari," which is offered only 20 times each day.