Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine
Shrine of Love and Enchanted Wind Chimes
Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine was established approximately 1,500 years ago during the Kofun period (250-538 CE), making it one of the oldest shrines in the Kanto region. The shrine was originally founded to enshrine five deities, including two married couples from Japanese mythology: Susanoo-no-Mikoto and Kushinadahime-no-Mikoto, along with their son and another divine couple. This unique arrangement of family deities led to the shrine's development as a prominent matchmaking and marriage blessing site. Throughout the Edo period, local lords and commoners alike visited to pray for successful marriages and family harmony.
The shrine gained particular prominence during the development of Kawagoe as a prosperous castle town in the Edo period. Its association with the Matsudaira clan, relatives of the Tokugawa shoguns who ruled Kawagoe Domain, brought prestige and patronage. The shrine's beautiful torii gate tunnel lined with 15 vermilion gates was donated by devotees seeking marital blessings. In recent decades, the shrine has modernized its approach while maintaining traditional rituals, introducing innovative events like the summer Wind Chime Festival (Enmusubi Furin) which began in 2014 and quickly became one of summer's most Instagram-worthy attractions in the Tokyo area.
Today, Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine attracts over 1 million annual visitors, especially young couples seeking matchmaking blessings and marriage ceremonies. The shrine is renowned for its romantic atmosphere, creative modern interpretations of traditional customs (like ema prayer plaques shaped like fish), and the spectacular summer Wind Chime Festival featuring 2,000+ glass wind chimes creating a dreamy soundscape. The shrine successfully bridges ancient spiritual traditions with contemporary social media culture, becoming one of Japan's most photographed shrines while maintaining its sacred character and matchmaking focus.
Key Highlights
- 1,500-year-old shrine famous for matchmaking and marriage blessings
- Summer Wind Chime Festival with 2,000+ colorful glass chimes
- Tunnel of 15 vermilion torii gates leading to main hall
- Free daily distribution of matchmaking omamori talismans
- Traditional ceremonies and romantic photo spots
- Located in historic Kawagoe 'Little Edo' district
Access Information
Location
2-11-3 Miyashita-cho, Kawagoe, Saitama 350-0052, Japan
Nearest Stations
- • Hon-Kawagoe Station (Seibu Shinjuku Line) - 20 min walk or 10 min bus
- • Kawagoe Station (JR Kawagoe Line) - 30 min walk or 15 min bus
- • Kawagoe-shi Station (Tobu Tojo Line) - 25 min walk or 10 min bus
Opening Hours
Shrine grounds: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM; Wind Chime Festival (July-September): 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM with evening illumination; Shrine office: 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM
Admission Fee
Free admission; Prayer services and charms purchased separately
How to Get There
From Tokyo (Shinjuku)
Take Seibu Shinjuku Line Express to Hon-Kawagoe Station (45-50 minutes, ¥500), then walk 20 minutes or take local bus to Kawagoe Hikawa Jinja stop (10 minutes, ¥200). Most convenient direct route from central Tokyo.
60 minutes
From Tokyo (Ikebukuro)
Take Tobu Tojo Line Express to Kawagoe-shi Station (30 minutes, ¥480), then walk 25 minutes or bus to shrine (10 minutes). Good option if combining with Kawagoe Old Town visit.
50 minutes
From Kawagoe Old Town
Walk 20-25 minutes from Kawagoe's historic warehouse district, or take local bus (¥200). Many visitors combine shrine visit with exploring Kawagoe's 'Little Edo' traditional streets.
20 minutes
Tips & Visiting Guide
Make the most of your visit with these helpful tips and guidelines.
Wind Chime Festival Magic
From early July through September, over 2,000 hand-painted glass wind chimes (furin) hang throughout the shrine grounds creating a dreamlike soundscape of tinkling melodies. Each chime features unique hand-painted designs. Evening illumination (sunset-9 PM) creates magical atmosphere with lit chimes glowing in twilight. The festival draws massive crowds on weekends - visit weekday mornings (9-11 AM) or weekday evenings for more peaceful experience. Photography is best during evening illumination or overcast days to avoid harsh shadows.
Best Photo Spots
The torii gate tunnel (15 vermilion gates in succession) creates classic shrine photography. During Wind Chime Festival, the chimes hanging from wooden frames with reflections in water basins make Instagram-famous shots. The main hall with its elegant architecture and seasonal decorations provides traditional compositions. The fish-shaped ema (prayer plaques) displayed en masse create colorful patterns. Early morning or late afternoon provides softer light. The shrine encourages photography but maintain respectful behavior - this is an active place of worship.
Matchmaking Traditions
The shrine distributes 20 free matchmaking talismans (enmusubi amulets) daily at 8:00 AM - arrive early as they're highly sought after. The unique 'ai-tai' (wanting to meet) stones are smooth river pebbles blessed for finding love - pick one, pray, and carry it as matchmaking talisman. Write wishes on fish-shaped ema and hang them in designated areas. Couples can tie their fortunes together at special musubi trees. Many visitors come specifically for these romantic rituals, making the shrine popular with young Japanese seeking relationships.
Evening Illumination
During the Wind Chime Festival, evening illumination (sunset to 9:00 PM) transforms the shrine into a magical nighttime destination. The lit wind chimes, lanterns, and traditional buildings create romantic atmosphere. Weekday evenings less crowded than weekends. The shrine office sells special evening-only limited edition items. Cooler evening temperatures provide relief from summer heat. Arrive around 6:30 PM to see transition from daylight to illuminated nightscape.
Matchmaking Omikuji
The shrine's omikuji (fortune papers) focus on romantic prospects and relationship advice. The 'ai-tai mikuji' (wanting to meet fortune) specifically predicts romantic encounters. Rather than traditional text-only fortunes, these include cute illustrations and modern language. Good fortunes are tied to designated trees. Bad fortunes can be left at the shrine to negate misfortune. The fortunes make popular souvenirs for single friends (¥200-300). English translations available for some fortune types.
Exploring the Grounds
Beyond the main worship hall, explore the serene pond garden, smaller auxiliary shrines, and the avenue of torii gates. The haiden (main hall) features beautiful architectural details and seasonal decorations. The shrine's wedding ceremony hall occasionally hosts traditional Shinto weddings - you may glimpse couples in formal attire. The koi pond provides peaceful contemplation spots. Allow 45-60 minutes for thorough visit, or 90-120 minutes during Wind Chime Festival to fully enjoy the atmosphere.
Nearby Kawagoe Old Town
Combine shrine visit with exploring Kawagoe's historic merchant district (20-minute walk). The 'Little Edo' area features Edo-period warehouses (kura), candy shops, and traditional restaurants serving sweet potato specialties. The famous Kashiya Yokocho (Candy Alley) offers nostalgic Japanese sweets. Multiple cafes serve matcha and Japanese desserts. Make a full day trip: morning at shrine, afternoon in Old Town. Bus connections available between shrine and main tourist areas.
Best Visiting Times
For the famous free morning talismans, arrive by 7:45 AM (distributed at 8 AM, limited to 20 per day). Wind Chime Festival weekday mornings (9-11 AM) or weekday evenings (6-8 PM) avoid peak crowds. Avoid weekends during festival when the small shrine grounds become packed. Off-season (October-June) offers peaceful visits with fewer tourists. Autumn brings beautiful foliage around the shrine. Spring cherry blossoms near the pond create romantic scenes. Allow 60-90 minutes visit time.
FAQ
What is Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine famous for?
Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine is renowned as a power spot for matchmaking, love, and marriage blessings. It's especially popular with couples and those seeking romantic partnerships. The shrine is over 1,500 years old and enshrines five deities including two married couples and their child, symbolizing family harmony. The summer wind chime festival and unique fortunes attract visitors year-round.
What are the special fortunes at Hikawa Shrine?
The shrine offers unique tai (sea bream) fortunes - visitors fish for paper tai using fishing rods at the Aiding Tai corner. Red tai are for love and relationships, while pink tai bring general good fortune. These adorable fortunes contain written predictions and can be taken home. Limited to one per person per day. The shrine also has traditional omikuji fortunes and special ema wishing plaques.
When is the Wind Chime Festival at Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine?
The Enmusubi Wind Chime Festival runs from early July to early September annually. Over 2,000 colorful wind chimes create a stunning display called the 'Wind Chime Corridor', with chimes in 11 different colors representing different prayers. Evening illuminations make it magical. The festival attracts huge crowds, especially on weekends. Arrive early morning or weekday afternoons for the best experience.
How long should I spend at Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine?
Most visitors spend 30-45 minutes at the shrine itself. This includes praying, trying the tai fortune, exploring the grounds, and taking photos. During the Wind Chime Festival, allow 60-90 minutes to enjoy the displays and illuminations. Combine with Kawagoe's old town district for a 3-4 hour visit to the area. The shrine is relatively compact but rich in atmospheric details.
What are the shrine opening hours?
The shrine grounds are open 24 hours for worship and visiting. The shrine office and fortune areas operate from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily (may close earlier in winter). During the Wind Chime Festival, special evening hours extend until 9:00 PM on weekends and holidays. The tai fortune fishing is available during office hours only. Early morning visits offer peaceful atmosphere.
Is there an admission fee to Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine?
No, entry to the shrine is completely free. Participating in special activities like tai fortune fishing costs 300 yen. Purchasing amulets, ema plaques, and other items requires separate payment. During the Wind Chime Festival, admission to the main grounds remains free, though some special zones may have small fees. Most visitors spend 300-1,000 yen on fortunes and amulets.
How do I get to Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine from Tokyo?
Take the JR Saikyo or Kawagoe Line from Shinjuku or Ikebukuro to Kawagoe Station (30-50 minutes). From Kawagoe Station, take the Koedo Loop Bus to Hikawa Jinja-mae stop (15 minutes, 200 yen). Alternatively, walk from Hon-Kawagoe Station on the Seibu Shinjuku Line (20 minutes). The shrine is about 15-20 minutes walk from Kawagoe's main old town area.
What is the Daily Good Fortune Stone distribution?
Every morning at 8:00 AM, the shrine distributes 20 special stones believed to bring good fortune to those who carry them. These small white stones from the shrine's grounds are purified and blessed. They're given free on a first-come basis, creating early morning queues on weekends. Arrive by 7:30-7:45 AM to secure one. The stones are kept in amulet bags or special pouches sold at the shrine.
Can I have a wedding at Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine?
Yes, the shrine is a popular wedding venue offering traditional Shinto ceremonies. Its reputation for marriage blessings makes it especially meaningful for couples. The shrine's beautiful grounds provide excellent photo opportunities. Wedding ceremonies must be booked well in advance through the shrine office. Visitors may occasionally see wedding processions, which is considered lucky. Observer etiquette requests quiet respect during ceremonies.
Is Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine crowded?
Moderate crowds on regular days, with more visitors on weekends. During the Wind Chime Festival (July-August), expect large crowds, especially weekends and evenings. Early morning visits (8-9 AM) are quietest. New Year and major Japanese holidays see significant crowds. Weekday mornings outside festival season offer peaceful visits. The compact shrine grounds can feel crowded even with moderate visitor numbers.
What else can I see in Kawagoe?
Kawagoe is known as 'Little Edo' with well-preserved historic streets. Main attractions include Kurazukuri Street with traditional warehouses, Kashiya Yokocho candy alley, Toki no Kane bell tower, Kita-in Temple, and numerous museums. The old town is 15-20 minutes walk from Hikawa Shrine. Plan a full day to explore both the shrine and historic district. Kawagoe also offers excellent sweet potato treats and traditional crafts.
Are there restaurants near the shrine?
Some cafes and small restaurants exist near the shrine, but the main dining area is in Kawagoe's old town (15-minute walk). Traditional restaurants serve eel dishes, a Kawagoe specialty. Sweet potato desserts and snacks are everywhere. Budget 1,000-2,000 yen for meals. The shrine area has vending machines and small shops. Better dining variety exists in the main tourist district around Kurazukuri Street.
Can I take photos at Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine?
Yes, photography is permitted throughout the shrine grounds for personal use. The Wind Chime Corridor is especially photogenic. Avoid photographing people praying or during wedding ceremonies without permission. Tripods may be restricted during crowded periods. Instagram-worthy spots include the wind chimes, torii gate, and tai fortune area. Respectful photography is always appreciated at sacred sites.
Is the shrine suitable for children?
Yes, very family-friendly. Children enjoy the fishing for tai fortunes, colorful wind chimes, and carp in the shrine pond. The grounds are safe and mostly flat. During the Wind Chime Festival, kids are enchanted by the sounds and colors. Educational value in learning about Japanese culture and traditions. The shrine visit combines well with Kawagoe's candy alley which kids love.
What amulets or charms can I buy?
The shrine specializes in matchmaking and relationship amulets (enmusubi). Popular items include pair amulets for couples, marriage blessing amulets, and general good fortune charms. Unique offerings include sakura-shaped ema plaques and wind chime-themed items during summer. Prices range from 500-1,500 yen. The beautifully designed amulets make popular gifts. Office staff can explain each amulet's specific purpose.
Should I visit during the Wind Chime Festival?
Yes, if your schedule aligns (early July to early September). The festival transforms the shrine into a magical experience with 2,000 chimes creating mesmerizing sounds and colors. Evening illuminations are spectacular. However, expect large crowds, especially weekends. If you prefer peaceful shrine atmosphere, visit outside festival season. The shrine is beautiful year-round, but the festival offers a unique seasonal experience worth planning for.
Can I visit Hikawa Shrine and Kawagoe old town in one day?
Absolutely! This is the recommended approach. Start at the shrine in the morning (30-60 minutes), then walk or bus to the old town (3-4 hours exploring). The locations are close enough for easy combination. Total visit time is 4-6 hours making it perfect for a half-day or full-day trip from Tokyo. The Koedo Loop Bus connects major sites conveniently.
Do I need to speak Japanese to visit?
Not essential. The shrine is straightforward to navigate with basic signage. Fortune telling and rituals are visual and intuitive. Shrine staff have limited English but are helpful. Translation apps work for reading fortunes. The cultural experience transcends language. Many international visitors successfully enjoy the shrine without Japanese language skills. Following other visitors' lead works well for shrine etiquette.
What is proper etiquette at Hikawa Shrine?
Bow at the torii gate before entering. Purify hands and mouth at the water basin: take ladle with right hand, rinse left hand, switch hands, rinse right hand, pour water into left hand to rinse mouth (don't drink directly), then rinse left hand again. At the main hall: bow twice, clap twice, pray, bow once. Speak quietly, dress modestly, and be respectful during prayers and ceremonies.
Is Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine worth visiting?
Yes, especially if you're interested in Japanese culture, seeking relationship blessings, or visiting during the Wind Chime Festival. It's one of the more atmospheric and photogenic shrines near Tokyo. The unique tai fortunes and matchmaking focus differentiate it from other shrines. Combined with Kawagoe's historic streets, it makes an excellent day trip from Tokyo. The peaceful grounds offer respite from Tokyo's intensity while remaining easily accessible.
Nearby Attractions
Explore more wonderful destinations in the same prefecture.
Hitsujiyama Park (Shibazakura)
A hillside park famous for spectacular spring displays of 400,000 shibazakura (moss phlox) creating pink, white, and purple flower carpets with mountain views as backdrop.
Kawagoe Old Town
Known as 'Little Edo,' this charming historic district preserves Edo-period kurazukuri warehouse buildings and traditional atmosphere, just 30 minutes from Tokyo.
Nagatoro River & Iwadatami
A scenic river gorge featuring unique layered rock formations called 'Iwadatami' resembling tatami mats, best explored by traditional boat rides and riverside walks through crystalline schist cliffs.