⛩️ Kawagoe Kumano Shrine

In the 18th year of the Tenshō era (1590), this shrine was established as a branch of the Kumano Hongū Taisha in Kishu and is affectionately known as "Okumansama (おくまんさま)," beloved by the locals. It is said to be quite effective for prayers for good fortune, with several auspicious spots within its grounds, including the "Fortune Ring" and the "Treasure Pond," which is used for purifying wealth to enhance financial luck. The "Yatagarasu" (八咫烏), regarded as a messenger of the Kumano deities, is depicted in the shrine's emblem and is said to be a divine bird that brings hope to those lost in darkness. Kumano Hongū Taisha has several popular worship highlights, such as "MUSUHI NO NIWA," where visitors can gain strength from the relief carvings after making their wishes, and the "Giant Yatagarasu" statue, which has a charming appearance that soothes the heart. The protective amulets and fortune slips are also very popular. The main deities worshipped here are the husband-and-wife gods Izanagi and Izanami, who appear in the "Kojiki," attracting many visitors seeking good relationships. Another notable feature is the "Foot Health Path" set up along the approach to the shrine. The path is lined with fine gravel, and walking barefoot on it stimulates the pressure points on the soles of the feet, said to promote health and relieve fatigue. Every year on December 3rd, the shrine hosts the "Kawagoe Tori no Ichi," a regular festival of the Ōwashi Shrine. With a history of over a hundred years, the event features performances of traditional music and kagura in the Kaguraden, attracting many worshippers eager to purchase the lucky charm "Kumade."

A shrine that was separated from Kumano Hongu Taisha in Kishu in 1590. It features several fortune-enhancing attractions, including the "Treasure Pond" for washing money and the "Fortune Ring Toss." The "Foot Health Path" along the approach promotes health through barefoot walking. The omamori (amulets) and the Yatagarasu (three-legged crow) fortune slips are particularly popular. Every year on December 3rd, the "Kawagoe Tori no Ichi" festival is held, attracting a large number of worshippers and creating a lively atmosphere.