氷川神社
1-407 Takahanacho, Omiya Ward, Saitama City, Saitama Prefecture
The main shrine of Hikawa Shrines across various regions and the primary shrine of the Musashi Province.
The name "Ōmiya," where it is located, originates from "a grand shrine," and it is called Ōmiya Hikawa Shrine to distinguish it from other Hikawa Shrines.
The shrine attracts many worshippers from Saitama and nearby prefectures, with the New Year's visits ranking among the top ten nationwide.
Even on weekdays, many people walk along the long, straight approach.
The shrine grounds contain 13 auxiliary and subordinate shrines, and turtles inhabit the sacred pond.
After crossing the bridge over the sacred pond, one reaches the tower gate.
The tower gate, with its red-painted components and white walls, is relatively plain with few carvings despite its large size.
According to shrine tradition, it was founded in 473 B.C. during the reign of Emperor Kōshō.
It was highly revered by samurai governing the Kanto region, leading to many branch shrines being established along the Arakawa River.
During the reign of Emperor Seimu (circa 130-190 A.D.), the Izumo clan developed this area, and the Musashi no Kuni no Miyatsuko clan is believed to be related to the Izumo no Kuni no Miyatsuko clan.
It is said that the name "Hikawa" originates from "Hikawa" in Izumo, referring to the Hii River.
The shrine complex behind the tower gate includes a kagura hall at the center.
Behind it are the worship hall and the main hall.
The main hall is surrounded by a corridor connected to the worship hall, and can only be seen from the front of the worship hall.
The shrine grounds, being part of Ōmiya Park, are wide and bright, attracting many visitors.
| Location | 1-407 Takahanacho, Omiya-ku, Saitama City, Saitama Prefecture |
|---|---|
| Website | http://musashiichinomiya-hikawa.or.jp/ |
| Deities | Susanoo-no-Mikoto, Kushinada-hime, Ōkuninushi-no-Mikoto |