Washinomiya Shrine
One of the Kanto region's oldest and largest shrines — founded over 2,400 years ago and a major power spot for martial arts and archery. The shrine became famous internationally as the setting for the anime "Lucky Star," drawing anime pilgrims from around the world who found a genuinely ancient sacred site waiting for them.
30–60 min
Free
Open 24 hours; office 9:00–17:00
Year-round (January for New Year)
Washinomiya Station on Tobu Isesaki Line (40 min from Asakusa)
Location
Why Visit
- 1
2,400-year-old shrine with a forest of giant cedar trees — one of the oldest in Kanto
- 2
New Year visits draw 500,000 people — "Lucky Star" anime fans now mix with traditional pilgrims
- 3
The Kamo Festival in September re-enacts Heian court ceremonies with processions in ancient costume
Local Tips
One of the Kanto region's oldest shrines, this became a pilgrimage site for anime fans after featuring in Lucky Star. Visit at New Year (Hatsumode) for one of Saitama's largest gatherings. The approach avenue of cedars is serene in the early morning mist.
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