Chichibu Shrine

Chichibu Shrine, located in Saitama Prefecture, is one of the oldest shrines in the Kanto region with the founding said to date back 2,000 years. Together with Mitsumine Shrine and Hodosan Shrine, it is known as the “Three Shrines of Chichibu” and is cherished as the most important shrine in the Chichibu area. The main hall, reconstructed in 1592, is designated as an Important Cultural Property of Saitama Prefecture and holds significant historical value. The shrine grounds feature an array of impressive sculptures, including the Tsunagi no Ryu (chained dragon), Hokushin no Fukuro (the North Star owl) known to bring academic success, the Kosodate no Tora (child-rearing tiger), and the Ogenki Sanzaru (three monkeys of good health). The annual Chichibu Night Festival held every December is a National Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property, and is a major event attracting many tourists from across Japan.