Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine — Attraction in Kawagoe

I recently visited Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine, and it’s definitely one of the loveliest, most peaceful spots in Kawagoe. Tucked just a short walk from the historic Ichibangai Shotengai, this shrine is a serene oasis amid the buzz of the old town.

The shrine grounds are beautifully maintained, with tall, tranquil trees creating a calming atmosphere. One of the best parts? They have the cutest ema prayer boards in the shape of hearts—perfect for couples or anyone wanting a sweet keepsake. The water trough area is also so photogenic, with traditional ladles and flowing water that adds to the peaceful vibe.

Walking through the torii gates and lantern-lined paths felt like stepping into another era. I stopped by to bless my trip via the shrine rituals—washing my hands, ringing the bell, saying a wish—and it added a nice cultural touch to the day.

If you’re into seasonal beauty, visit during spring for cherry blossoms or autumn for colorful leaves—the setting is just magical. There’s also a lovely riverside path behind the shrine that’s perfect for a quiet stroll.

Best part? It’s only about a 10–15 minute walk from both Kawagoe Station and the main old-town area. I popped in after exploring the shops—it felt like the perfect moment to pause and reflect before heading back to Tokyo.

In short: Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine is beautiful, peaceful, and full of character. A must-visit if you’re...

It was a romantic place. The shrine is known to bless people looking for love and those who have already found it. The shrine itself is very old and beautiful. You wash your hands at the water tank with the stone dragon, immediately after entering the gate of the shrine. Then, you offer your your prayers at the shrine by clapping twice and bowing twice. You can buy beautiful omamori at the shrine's shop, attend the fuurin (wind chime) festival if you're there at the right time and also buy an ema - a block of wood to write down your prayers and tie it up in the path way of ema, made for the purpose.

It's a little way out of Tokyo, but it's worth a visit for the shrine itself and also for the edo town in Kawagoe, close to the shrine.

Don't forget to reach Kawagoe in the morning and buy a one day tourist bus pass at the train station to travel around Kawagoe with a cheap, one time payment (there's enough to see for a day). They'll even give you a map of all the places to visit and bus details...

Nestled in the Kawagoe region, an ancient shrine exudes tranquility within its expansive grounds. The serene ambiance, with its ample shade, fosters a sense of calmness, creating an ideal retreat from the bustling surroundings.

During my visit, I was fortunate to experience a summer festival in the evening, casting a romantic aura over the shrine. However, being there alone amplified a sense of solitude despite the vibrant festivities. Remarkably, despite the season, the weather remained pleasantly cool, enhancing the overall experience.

A tip for love-seekers: Early morning visits are recommended for those desiring a love talisman. At 7:00 a.m., Maiko distributes queue tickets for lucky stones. However, only 20 people receive them each day, making it essential to arrive early to secure this sought-after token of fortune."

This revision aims to capture the tranquil essence of the shrine, the contrast of solitude amid festivity, and the advice for those seeking a lucky...