The shrine's 2-kilometer-long 'sando' (approach) is one of the longest in Japan, beginning near the local city center.
The name 'Omiya,' meaning 'Great Shrine,' is derived directly from the presence of this Hikawa Jinja.
The shrine holds an annual event called 'Tokaryosai' on August 1st, featuring a traditional procession.
The architectural style of the Hikawa-zukuri main hall is a rare variant found predominantly in shrines dedicated to the Hikawa deity.
The precinct houses a secondary, smaller shrine known as the 'Monke-sha' that is designated as a cultural property.
Musashi Ichinomiya Hikawa Jinja is the head shrine of approximately 280 Hikawa shrines located across Japan. It possesses a history spanning over 2,400 years, making it one of the oldest Shinto sites in the Kanto region. The shrine grounds encompass Omiya Park, featuring a nearly two-kilometer-long approach lined with zelkova trees. The current main hall and related structures were reconstructed in the 20th century following the Great Kanto Earthquake. Its name, 'Musashi Ichinomiya,' denotes its status as the highest-ranking shrine in the former Musashi Province. The site is dedicated to Susanoo-no-Mikoto, his wife Kushinadahime-no-Mikoto, and Onamuchi-no-Mikoto. The precinct includes a large pond and traditional red bridges that serve as transition points from the secular world to the sacred grounds.
The vermilion bridge crossing the shin-ike pond with the shrine forest as the background.
Walk the entire length of the zelkova-lined approach from the city area to experience the traditional transition into the sacred grove.
Visit the pond area on the south side of the grounds for a view of the vermilion bridge against the forest backdrop.
Check the shrine's official schedule for major matsuri (festivals) if you prefer to avoid large crowds or, conversely, wish to witness local cultural traditions.
Stepping on the center of the path as it is reserved for the deity; taking photos inside the inner sanctum where prohibited.
Purify hands and mouth at the chozuya before approaching the main hall; keep voices low; bow respectfully at the torii gates.
