Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine, also known as Kawagoe Hikawa Jinja, is a Shinto shrine located in Kawagoe city, Saitama prefecture, Japan. It is one of the most popular shrines in Saitama prefecture and is known for its beautiful architecture, peaceful surroundings, and rich history. The shrine is dedicated to three deities: Amenominakanushi-no-kami, Takeminakata-no-kami, and Kushiinada-hime-no-kami. History of Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine According to legend, Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine was founded in the 5th century by Emperor Yuryaku. The shrine was dedicated to the god of agriculture, but later became associated with the god of water, which is the main focus of the shrine today. During the Heian period (794-1185), the shrine became a popular destination for pilgrims and was designated as an official state shrine. The current shrine buildings were constructed in the early 17th century, during the Edo period (1603-1868), and are designated as an Important Cultural Property by the Japanese government. The main shrine building, called Honden, was constructed in the irimoya-zukuri style, which features a gabled roof with two slopes on each side. The roof is covered with cypress bark, which gives the building a unique appearance. The shrine has undergone several renovations and expansions over the years. In the late 19th century, the shrine’s garden was redesigned by the famous landscape architect Ogawa Jihei, also known as Ueji. The garden, which features a large pond and several bridges, is now considered one of the finest examples of Japanese garden design. The shrine suffered significant damage during World War II and underwent major renovations in the postwar period. Today, it is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, and hosts several festivals and events throughout the year. Shrine Grounds and Architecture The grounds of Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine cover an area of approximately 17,000 square meters and are home to several buildings, including the main shrine building, the offering hall, the prayer hall, and the treasure house. The main shrine building, Honden, is the most important building on the grounds and houses the three deities to which the shrine is dedicated. The offering hall, called Haiden, is located in front of the main shrine building and is where visitors make offerings and prayers. The prayer hall, called Heiden, is located to the right of the main shrine building and is where the shrine’s priests perform purification rituals and offer prayers on behalf of visitors. The treasure house, called Shosoin, is located behind the main shrine building and houses the shrine’s collection of ancient artifacts and other treasures. The collection includes several Important Cultural Properties, including a set of Noh masks, a 17th-century wooden statue of a guardian deity, and a collection of ancient documents and records. The shrine’s architecture is characterized by its use of natural materials, such as cypress bark, thatch, and wood. The buildings are designed to blend in with their natural surroundings and create a sense of harmony and tranquility. The shrine’s garden, which was designed by Ogawa Jihei, is also an important part of its architecture and features several ponds, bridges, and other elements that create a peaceful and serene atmosphere. Festivals and Events Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine hosts several festivals and events throughout the year. One of the most popular events is the Hikawa Festival, which is held annually in early September. The festival features a parade of mikoshi (portable shrines) and other traditional Japanese performances, such as taiko