日比田氷川神社 is a Shinto shrine located in the town of Sakura, Saitama Prefecture, Japan. It is one of the oldest shrines in Saitama and is dedicated to the water deity, Namazu-e (, or 'Namazu, the catfish'). The shrine is famous for its beautiful autumn foliage and traditional architecture. Visitors can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and learn about the history and mythology of the shrine.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Namazu-e
- Kami enshrined
- Namazu-e
- Coordinates
- 35.8090344, 139.5041344
Visitor tip
To fully appreciate the shrine's autumn foliage, visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon when the sun is not too high. Also, be sure to bring a traditional Japanese tea set to enjoy the serene atmosphere.
Cultural notes
The shrine is known for its traditional Nara-style architecture and is famous for its annual autumn festival, where visitors can enjoy traditional music, dance, and food. In Shinto mythology, Namazu-e is believed to be responsible for creating the ocean's tides.
Historical note
The shrine was founded in 744 AD, during the Nara period, making it one of the oldest Shinto shrines in Japan.