What is the significance of the sacred pond at the shrine?

The sacred pond, believed to have purifying properties, is used in various purification rituals. Visitors often wash their hands and mouths here before praying.

Are there any unique architectural features at Oyaba Hikawa Shrine?

The shrine features a unique combination of traditional Japanese architectural elements, including a thatched roof and intricately carved wooden beams, showcasing the craftsmanship of the Edo period.

What special events or festivals are held at the shrine?

Besides the Reitaisai in October, the shrine hosts New Year celebrations, Setsubun in February, and the cherry blossom festival in spring, each offering different traditional activities and performances.

Is there any connection between Oyaba Hikawa Shrine and other Hikawa Shrines?

Yes, Oyaba Hikawa Shrine is part of a network of Hikawa Shrines, the most famous of which is the Hikawa Shrine in Omiya. This network underscores the widespread influence of Hikawa worship in the region.

A bright red torii gate stands at the entrance of a Shinto shrine, surrounded by trees and traditional buildings, with sunlight filtering through the leaves. The path leads to the shrine’s main structure in the background.

A traditional Japanese shrine with wooden buildings, tiled roofs, and a courtyard shaded by tall trees. Sunlight filters through the leaves, casting dappled shadows on the ground. A modern building is visible in the background.

A small red Shinto shrine stands in a peaceful wooded area, surrounded by tall trees and dappled sunlight. A stone bench sits nearby, and fallen leaves cover the ground.

Saitama

Oyaba Hikawa Shrine

4 (133)Shinto ShrineTourist AttractionPlace Of WorshipAssociation Or OrganizationPoint Of InterestEstablishment

Last updated Jun 7, 2026

Oyaba Hikawa Shrine boasts a rich history spanning over 2,000 years. Dedicated to the deity Susanoo-no-Mikoto, it is a significant religious site where locals and visitors come to seek blessings for good fortune, health, and success.

The main hall, a beautiful example of traditional Japanese architecture, stands out with its intricate wooden carvings and vibrant red color. The shrine grounds are tranquil, featuring ancient trees, stone lanterns, and a sacred pond that adds to the overall charm and serenity.

One interesting aspect is the shrine's connection to the Hikawa Shrine network, which includes the famous Hikawa Shrine in Omiya. Oyaba Hikawa Shrine is part of this broader religious network, making it an important cultural and spiritual hub.

During annual festivals like the Reitaisai in October, the shrine becomes a lively center of activity with traditional music, dance, and food stalls, drawing large crowds. These events offer a deep dive into local customs and traditions, providing a unique experience for visitors.

The Torii gate at the entrance is iconic and often photographed by tourists. The Oyaba Hikawa Shrine also hosts a traditional sumo ring, where local matches are sometimes held, adding to its cultural significance.

Website

www.saitama-jinjacho.or.jp

Overview

Address

1-chōme-9-1 Minamihonchō, Minami Ward, Saitama, 336-0018, Japan

Website

www.saitama-jinjacho.or.jp

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Traveler reviews

The slope is a bit hard for wheelchair and stroller

KAZUYUKI MURAKAMI

Jan 3, 2023

狛犬ならぬ狛雉が居る珍しい神社です。けいだいは綺麗に清められています。本殿は周りを板で囲われており良く見えません。

This shrine is famous for its hydrangeas. It appears to have been founded quite a long time ago. The main hall is designated as a cultural property. Instead of guardian lions, there were pheasants. Parking is available on the shrine grounds (free of charge).

This is an old shrine located on a small hill in front of JR Minami-Urawa Station, but there is no priest on-site and there is no water for purification in the temizuya. It is an unusual shrine in that its attendants are not lion dogs but pigeons and pheasants.

Oyaba Hikawa Shrine The exact founding date is unknown, but it has long been cherished by the local people as the guardian shrine of the Oyaba area. It is said to have been destroyed by fire at the beginning of the Edo period and subsequently rebuilt. According to records remaining at the shrine, the current main hall has a ridge beam inscription from 1666 (Kanbun 6) and is designated as a tangible cultural property of the city. The shrine grounds are planted with various plants, including hydrangeas and tulip trees, which are designated as natural monuments of the city, allowing visitors to enjoy the charming scenery of each season. It is also known as "Kiji no Hikawa-sama" (Pheasant Hikawa Shrine). The guardian lion-dogs are shaped like pheasants. This is said to be rare throughout Japan.