Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine Festival

The Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine Festival is an annual event held in the city of Saitama, Japan. The festival takes place at the Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine, which is located at approximately 35.9199° N, 139.4854° E.

History

The Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine Festival has been held for over 370 years. It is said to have originated in the Edo period, when the shrine was built to protect the city from fire and natural disasters. The festival is now a celebration of the shrine's history and the city's culture.

Activities

The festival features a variety of activities, including traditional Japanese dance performances, food vendors, and games. One of the highlights of the festival is the parade of mikoshi, which are portable shrines carried by groups of men. The mikoshi are believed to contain the spirit of the shrine deity and are carried through the streets to bless the surrounding area.

Food

The festival is a great opportunity to try traditional Japanese foods. Some of the most popular dishes include takoyaki (octopus balls), yakitori (grilled chicken skewers), and shaved ice. There are also many food vendors selling traditional Japanese sweets, such as dango (sweet rice dumplings) and taiyaki (fish-shaped cakes filled with sweet bean paste).

Getting There

The Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine Festival is easily accessible by train. Take the JR Kawagoe Line to Kawagoe Station and transfer to the Tobu Tojo Line. Get off at Kita-in Station and walk for about 10 minutes to reach the shrine.

Conclusion

The Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine Festival is a must-see event for anyone interested in Japanese culture. With its traditional performances, delicious food, and vibrant atmosphere, the festival is sure to be a memorable experience.