Hikawa Shrine in Omiya of Saitama prefecture
1. Today's Walking Course
Today, I came to Omiya in Saitama prefecture. Omiya literally means a big shrine and it is Hikawa Shrine where I will go today.
2. Today's Photographies
Now I am on the approach to Hikawa Shrine. This approach is about 2km and the longest in Japan. I cannot see Trii gate, the entrance of shrine at all…
Now the Trii gate is coming into sight!
There is a old tree which has a histric atmosphere.
Bamboo forest too!
It is so beautiful.
There are some traditional architecture which has a historical atmosphere.
I almost arrived at the entrance of the shrine.
Finally, I arrived!
After going through the Trii gate, the area looks very spiritual.
They are barrels of Japanese sake made in the local area. They are all tributes to God in the shrine.
This is the main gate of shrine. It is so big.
Through the gate, there is a dancing hall where dancer perform for God.
This is the mail hall which enshrines God.
There are many beautiful objects and design here!!
3. History
According to the tradition, Hikawa Shrine was established more than 2000 years ago and Omiya was developed as the shrine town.
In 17th century, Omiya became a post town of Japanese major street called Nakasendo and many people visited the town. The town had flourished very much from the 17th century to the 19th century in Edo era.
After the modernization of Japan in the 19 century, Omiya became the key point of Japanese railway network and many goods and people flowed into this area.
Now, Omiya also plays a role of commuter town to Tokyo and is one of the most developed areas in Saitama prefecture.
4. Information
・Closest stations to Hikawa Shrine is Omiya Station, JR Keihin Tohoku Line.
If you are interested in Omiya area, please check the following article.
