Chichibu Shrine

One of Japan’s most historic shrines can be found in Chichibu City, just outside Tokyo in neighboring Saitama. Chichibu shrine dates back centuries and is mentioned in a set of Japanese civil and religious laws issued in 927. There are four deities enshrined here, including Chichibu- Hiko-No-Mi-koto who is worshipped as the cultivator of the region’s land. There’s plenty to explore within the shrine compounds. The main hall bears hallmarks of early Edo period architecture and is designated as an important cultural asset. The feudal warlord Tokugawa Ieyasu -- one of Japan’s key historical figures -- financed the reconstruction of the main hall. The Prefectural Government has designated the hall as a tangible cultural property. Chichibu Shrine is also home to the famed Night Festival, which takes place every year between December 1st and 6th . This event is one of Japan's three major festivals featuring large, decorate floats. It is also listed as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. The night parades draw about 200 thousand spectators and culminate with a breathtaking show of fireworks. If you’re here for the event, don’t forget to pick up the special handwritten temple seals issued during the festival. They’ll make great mementos of your trip to Japan.