About Washinomiya Shrine
Washinomiya Shrine, located in Kuki City, Saitama Prefecture, is a historic shrine known as the oldest large shrine in the Kanto region. It has a long history and was founded about 2,000 years ago, and has been worshipped by the local community as the chief guardian of Musashi Province. For this reason, it is affectionately called “O-Washisama” by the local people. The main deities enshrined at the shrine include Amenohohi-no-mikoto and Yamatotakeru-no-mikoto, gods of Japanese mythology, who are believed to bring many benefits such as a good harvest, prosperous business, traffic safety, and family safety.
One of the most distinctive features of Washinomiya Shrine is the tranquil and solemn atmosphere of its precincts. The path leading from the approach to the main shrine is lined with large trees, said to be several hundred years old, that envelop visitors in an air of serenity. The main shrine was rebuilt in the Edo period (1603-1867), and its beautifully carved and ornately decorated appearance is one of the highlights of the shrine's beauty and history. The surrounding area is also dotted with regent and subordinate shrines, allowing visitors to take a leisurely stroll through the shrine grounds and visit the various deities.
Washinomiya Shrine is also known as the sacred site for the anime “Lucky Star. As the model for the setting of the anime, many fans from all over the country visit the shrine to pay their respects, and the shrine is very crowded every year during Hatsumode (New Year's holidays) due to this. Ema (votive picture tablet) and omamori (good luck charm) for anime fans are also available, and illustrations and messages drawn by fans on ema (votive picture tablet) are displayed at the shrine, creating a unique and lively atmosphere. The shrine has become a popular spot for anime fans to make “pilgrimages to sacred places,” and is also a place where fans can interact with each other.
Many seasonal events and festivals are held here, and in particular, the “Dohajisai (Hajimasa Festival)” is a representative traditional event of Washinomiya Shrine. This festival is held in August and attracts many local residents and tourists. In addition, due to the popularity of the “Lucky Star” anime series, events are sometimes held in collaboration with the characters, and Washinomiya Shrine is a great place to see interaction between the community, the shrine, and anime fans.
Furthermore, Washinomiya Shrine is in beautiful harmony with nature, and visitors can enjoy the scenery of each of the four seasons. Cherry blossoms bloom in spring, fresh greenery adorns the shrine grounds in early summer, and the autumn leaves add beautiful colors in fall. Worshippers can visit the temple in each season's different scenery, making new discoveries each time they visit. The time spent in the quiet and serene environment is also a place where visitors can forget the hustle and bustle of daily life and refresh themselves both physically and mentally.
The shrine also offers a wide variety of omikuji (fortune telling) and omamori (talismans), and amulets specialized for wishes such as love and academic success are particularly popular. The amulets and charms come in a wide range of designs, from traditional to anime-style, and can be taken home as a memento of your visit.
Washinomiya Shrine is a special shrine that combines historical value and modern culture, a charming place where visitors can feel both the ancient flavor of the shrine and the breath of new culture. The shrine, where the stately appearance of the oldest large shrine in the Kanto region coexists with the new vibrancy brought about by anime culture, is a great place to visit for history buffs and anime fans, as well as for those who want to be soothed by nature and history.