Such a beautiful and peaceful shrine in Kawagoe! We loved visiting Kawagoe Hachimangu Shrine, especially because there are so many unique traditions and things to see here.
One of the highlights for us was getting to smash a clay ball to help ward off bad spirits — such a fun and memorable experience, especially with the kids. We also loved the foot-shaped stones and learning about the shrine’s connection to praying for healthy legs and a strong lower back. There is even a footprint stone honoring an elite marathon runner!
The shrine itself is absolutely beautiful and has such a peaceful atmosphere. There are so many little details and traditions throughout the grounds that make it much more than just a quick shrine stop.
Definitely worth visiting when exploring Kawagoe — it was one of our favorite unexpected stops!
We visited on October 26th 2025. It was a rainy day so we had our umbrellas out but that didn't detract from the pretty lantern-lined walkway behind the big red torii gate. The place felt peaceful despite people coming and going to pray.
Behind the main hall, there are several little shrines, which you get to by walking through the garden. The vermillion red mixed with the green so wonderfully. We really enjoyed our visit to this shrine. We finished by getting a goshuin.
This shrine is ten minutes walk from honkawagoe station. It's a really pretty shrine. There was a spring flower festival, so it looked really pretty. When I went, it was pretty crowded so I'd like to revisit this shrine some other day.
Very Impressive Shinto Shrine. Visited by many people and many smaller shrines here too.
Beautiful Shrine, lovely to pay your respects and get a goshiun for your stamp book
