Famous Pilgrimage Routes & Religious Sites in Itabashi, Tōkyō, Japan

Itabashi, Japan, Itabashi, Unique & Niche Travel Pages, Famous Pilgrimage Routes & Religious Sites

Famous Pilgrimage Routes & Religious Sites in Itabashi, Tōkyō, Japan

1. Saitama-Tokubetsu Ojizo-san

A unique statue of Ojizousan, the protector deity for children and travelers, adorned with a hat made from 500 types of fabric.
  • Variety of Fabrics: Each year, the hat is renewed with various materials, showcasing local craftsmanship.
  • Children's Protection: Believed to protect children from harm during their journeys.
  • Annual Festival: Join the lively festival held in May to pay respects and celebrate community bonds.

2. Kotokuin Temple

Home to Japan's second largest bronze Buddha statue, standing at 13.37 meters tall.
  • Impressive Statue: Intricate details on the statue showcase the skill of Edo period sculptors.
  • Historical Significance: Dates back to the late 17th century, providing a glimpse into the past.
  • Quiet Meditation Area: A peaceful space for reflection and prayer within the temple grounds.

3. Kawagoe Shrine

An ancient shrine dedicated to the gods of agriculture and prosperity. The main hall was rebuilt in 1895 after a fire.
  • Symbol of Resilience: Rebuilt after a fire, showcasing the spirit of perseverance.
  • Agricultural Blessings: Offers prayers for successful harvests and prosperity during special events.
  • Traditional Architecture: Features an elegant honden (main hall) built in the Edo period style.

4. Hikawa Shrine

A shrine dating back to the 7th century dedicated to the sun goddess Amaterasu and the sea deity Susanoo.
  • Ancient History: One of the oldest shrines in the Kanto region, steeped in tradition.
  • Powerful Deities: Worship of Amaterasu and Susanoo is thought to bring blessings for life, agriculture, and industry.
  • Beautiful Cherry Blossoms: Cherry blossom trees surround the shrine, creating a stunning view during springtime.

5. Kawagoe's Kita Inari Shrine

A beautiful Inari shrine with thousands of bright red torii gates leading to the main hall.
  • Thousand Torii Gates: Walk beneath these gates for a spiritual experience and witness breathtaking views.
  • Fox Statues: The shrine is guarded by many fox statues, believed to be messengers of Inari.
  • Success in Business: Visit for good fortune and success in business and industry.

6. Kawagoe's Hikawa Shrine Annex

An annex of the main Hikawa Shrine dedicated to the deity Ebisu, the god of fisheries and commerce.
  • Unique Deity Focus: Dedicated to the god of fisheries and commerce, drawing in visitors seeking blessings.
  • Stunning Architecture: Beautifully crafted building architecture showcases traditional Japanese design.
  • Festive Events: Experience lively events such as the Setsubun and Kawagoe Festival.

7. Kawagoe's Shinrinko Shrine

A shrine dedicated to the deity of education and wisdom, Shinrinko, offering blessings for students and scholars.
  • Education and Wisdom: Dedicated to the god of knowledge and learning, a must-visit for students seeking success.
  • Traditional Architecture: An elegant shrine built in the Edo period style showcasing Japanese craftsmanship.
  • Lantern Festival: Participate in the vibrant Lantern Festival held during summer solstice.

8. Kawagoe's Kami-Ogami Shrine

A shrine dedicated to the deity of war and victory, Kamio-gami, offering blessings for strength and bravery.
  • Warrior Deity: Dedicated to the god of war and victory, symbolizing power and protection.
  • Traditional Architecture: A beautifully preserved building that showcases traditional Japanese design.
  • Warrior Festivals: Join the lively Samurai Festival or the Saitama Shinkin Festival to experience tradition and culture.

9. Kawagoe's Mizuha Shrine

A small but significant shrine built over a well believed to have healing properties.
  • Healing Well: Drink the water from the holy well for potential health benefits.
  • Traditional Architecture: A quaint, traditional shrine nestled among modern buildings.
  • Peaceful Atmosphere: Find tranquility in this quiet, peaceful location.

10. Kawagoe's Myougiji Temple

A temple belonging to the Nichiren sect of Buddhism, housing a massive wooden statue of Amida Buddha.
  • Massive Statue: View the massive statue of Amida Buddha, an impressive sight.
  • Historical Significance: Dates back to the Edo period, offering a glimpse into Japan's past.
  • Peaceful Atmosphere: Experience a serene atmosphere perfect for meditation and reflection.

11. Kawagoe's Tsurugajo Castle

A beautiful castle ruin from the Edo period with a stunning view of Kawagoe city.
  • Edo Period Architecture: Experience the architecture of Japan's feudal past.
  • Stunning Views: Enjoy panoramic views of Kawagoe city from atop the castle ruins.
  • Historic Events: Learn about the castle's history and the important role it played in Japan's past.

12. Kawagoe's Jyunin-ji Temple

A temple dedicated to the god of prosperity and the guardian deities of merchants.
  • Prosperity Blessings: Visit for blessings of wealth and prosperity.
  • Historical Significance: Dates back to the early Edo period, offering a glimpse into Japan's past.
  • Traditional Architecture: Beautifully preserved building architecture showcases traditional Japanese design.

13. Kawagoe's Jyoden Hall

A beautifully preserved Edo period merchant's house that offers insights into life during that era.
  • Edo Period Living: Experience the lifestyle of merchants during the Edo period.
  • Architectural Preservation: Beautifully preserved building that showcases traditional Japanese design.
  • Cultural Experience: Participate in cultural activities such as kimono dressing and tea ceremonies.

14. Kawagoe's Hikawa Shrine Main Hall

The main hall of the Hikawa Shrine, a beautiful example of traditional Japanese architecture.
  • Traditional Architecture: Beautifully preserved building architecture showcases traditional Japanese design.
  • Historical Significance: Dates back to the 7th century, offering a glimpse into Japan's past.
  • Peaceful Atmosphere: Find tranquility in this quiet, peaceful location.

15. Kawagoe's Kotokuin Temple Bell

A massive temple bell that is rung during special events.
  • Impressive Size: View the massive size of the bell, weighing over 10 tons.
  • Historical Significance: Dates back to the Edo period, offering a glimpse into Japan's past.
  • Special Events: Hear the bell rung during special events such as New Year and Obon.