Complete Guide to Hisaizu Shrines | A Thorough Explanation from the Main Shrine in Saitama Prefecture to Branch Shrines in Various Regions
Hisaizu Shrines (久井ず神社) is a collective name for a group of shrines distributed mainly in Saitama Prefecture. These shrines, bearing the name “Hisaizu” and enshrining Ōkuninushi-no-Mikoto (Ōnamuchi-no-Mikoto) as their principal deity, have been cherished by local people since ancient times. This article provides a comprehensive explanation of Hisaizu Shrines, from their history and origins to major shrines in various regions, their blessings, and information on visiting them.
What are Hisaizu Shrines?
Hisaizu Shrines are a group of approximately 100 shrines located within Saitama Prefecture, mainly distributed from the Motoarakawa River basin to the middle reaches of the Tone River. While the official pronunciation of the shrine name is “Hisaizu Jinja,” it is sometimes pronounced “Kuizu Jinja” in some regions.
Deities and Blessings
The main deity enshrined at Kuizu Shrine is Ōnamuchi-no-Mikoto, which is another name for Ōkuninushi-no-Mikoto. Many Kuizu Shrines also enshrine Kotoshironushi-no-Mikoto, also known as Ebisu, a child deity of Ōkuninushi-no-Mikoto.
Main Blessings:
- Matchmaking and successful relationships
- Business prosperity and success
- Family safety and protection from evil
- Recovery from illness and longevity
- Safe childbirth and prayers for fertility
- Protection from negative influences
Ōkuninushi-no-Mikoto is known as a great god of nation-building and is widely worshipped as a god of fortune and matchmaking.
Origin of the Name of Kuizu Shrine
There are several theories regarding the origin of the name Kuizu. The most plausible theory is that it is related to the ancient “Kuizu no Kuni no Miyatsuko” (provincial governor of Kuizu Province). It is believed to have originated as the tutelary deity of the provincial governor who ruled this region.
It is also affectionately known as the “Quiz Shrine,” and in recent years, the number of visitors praying for success in exams and for wisdom has increased.
Head Shrine of Kuizu Shrines: Tamashiki Shrine (Kazo City, Saitama Prefecture)
The head shrine of Kuizu Shrines is Tamashiki Shrine, located in Kazo City, Saitama Prefecture.
History of Tamashiki Shrine
Tamashiki Shrine was formerly known as “Kuizu Myojin” and was a central figure in Kuizu faith. While the exact founding date is unclear, it has been revered as an important shrine in northern Musashi Province since ancient times.
During the Edo period, it was known as a high-ranking shrine, receiving land grants from the shogunate. Even today, it remains an important cultural property of Kazo City and a center of local faith. ## List of Major Kuizu Shrines
While there are numerous Kuizu Shrines in Saitama Prefecture, we will introduce some of the most prominent and historically significant ones, particularly those with a large number of visitors.
Kuizu Shrine (Koshigaya City, Saitama Prefecture)
Kuizu Shrine in Koshigaya City is one of the most famous Kuizu Shrines, serving as the guardian shrine of Koshigaya.
Basic Information:
- Location: 1700 Koshigaya, Koshigaya City, Saitama Prefecture
- Founded: Believed to be during the Heian period
- Deities Enshrined: Okuninushi-no-Mikoto, Kotoshironushi-no-Mikoto
Features:
Kuizu Shrine in Koshigaya is said to have been revered as a god of protection against disaster and bringing good fortune since the Heian period. Within the shrine grounds is a wisteria trellis designated as a prefectural natural monument, where magnificent wisteria trees, nearly 200 years old, reach their peak bloom in late April.
This wisteria is said to have been planted in 1837 (Tenpo 8) by Kunizo Kawanabe, a resident of Koshigaya town, who transported a wisteria tree over 50 years old from Nagareyama in Shimosa Province by boat. Every year in late April, a Wisteria Festival is held, attracting many visitors.
Access:
- Approximately 20 minutes on foot from the east exit of Koshigaya Station on the Tobu Skytree Line
- Immediately after alighting at the “Kuizu Shrine” bus stop (Asahi Bus)
- Parking available
Prayer Reception:
- Normally: 9:00 AM to around 4:00 PM
- Reception hours may change on special days such as festival days
Kuizu Shrine (Iwatsuki Ward, Saitama City, Saitama Prefecture)
Kuizu Shrine in Iwatsuki Ward, Saitama City is an ancient shrine with a history of approximately 1400 years, serving as the guardian shrine of Iwatsuki.
Basic Information:
- Location: 2-6-55 Miyacho, Iwatsuki-ku, Saitama City, Saitama Prefecture
- Founded: During the reign of Emperor Kinmei (539-571)
- Deity: Okuninushi-no-Mikoto
- Former Shrine Rank: Prefectural Shrine
History and Origin:
According to the “Chuko Ryakki” (a historical record of the shrine’s restoration), during the Muromachi period, when Ota Dokan, a retainer of the Ogigayatsu Uesugi clan, built Iwatsuki Castle, he prayed for military success at this shrine and rebuilt the shrine within the castle grounds. Since then, it has been revered as the guardian shrine of Musashi Province (Iwatsuki) and as a shrine that wards off evil spirits from Edo (Tokyo).
Features:
The shrine grounds are surrounded by forests and are in a rich natural environment, selected as one of Saitama Prefecture’s “Hometown Forests” and “100 Best Natural Sites.” It is also known as a haven for wild birds, allowing visitors to enjoy the changing seasons.
Since Prince Asaka donated three peacocks in 1938, peacocks have been carefully raised as a symbol of the shrine. Their unique amulets, bearing the kanji characters for “peacock” (久邪苦), are also popular.
Access:
- Approximately 15 minutes on foot from Iwatsuki Station on the Tobu Urban Park Line
- A new bus stop, “Kuizu Shrine Mae,” has been established on the Iwatsuki Ward Community Bus since May 1, 2025
- Parking available
Other Major Kuizu Shrines
Major Kuizu Shrines in Saitama Prefecture:
Konosu City, Saitama Prefecture:
- Kuizu Shrine (Konosu City): An important shrine in the Konosu area
Kumagaya City, Saitama Prefecture:
- Kuizu Shrine (Kumagaya City): A shrine that attracts worshippers in the Kumagaya area
Kasugabe City, Saitama Prefecture:
- Kuizu Shrine (Kasugabe City): The guardian deity of the Kasugabe area
Hasuda City, Saitama Prefecture:
- Kuizu Shrine (Hasuda City): The general guardian shrine of the region
Kuki City, Saitama Prefecture:
- Kuizu Shrine (Kuki City): Revered in the Kuki region
These Kuizu Shrines have long been cherished as local guardian deities and tutelary shrines in their respective regions, and are closely intertwined with local history.
Distribution and Historical Background of Kuizu Shrines
Geographical Distribution Characteristics
Kuizu Shrines are mainly distributed in the Niigata territory east of the Moto-Arakawa River. This is in stark contrast to the Katori Shrines, which are widely distributed west of the Moto-Arakawa River, and is thought to reflect differences in ancient regional divisions and areas of worship.
According to the Edo period’s “Shinpen Musashi Fudoki-ko” (New Compilation of the Topography of Musashi Province), 12 Kuizu Shrines are recorded in the Koshigaya region alone, indicating the flourishing of Kuizu worship in this area.
Historical Changes
Ancient Times:
It is believed that these shrines were established as tutelary deities related to the ancient Kuizu Kuni no Miyatsuko (provincial governor of Kuizu Province). The worship spread throughout the region from northern Musashi Province to Shimosa Province.
Medieval Period:
With the rise of the samurai class, the shrine was revered as a place to pray for lasting military fortune. It had a particularly strong connection to Iwatsuki Castle, attracting the faith of the castle lord and samurai.
Early Modern Period (Edo Period):
Under the rule of the Tokugawa shogunate, various Kuizu shrines became established as local guardian shrines. Many were granted shuinchi (land granted by the shogunate), and were recognized as high-ranking shrines.
Modern Era and Beyond:
Under the Meiji era’s shrine ranking system, major Kuizu shrines were designated as prefectural or regional shrines. Even today, they continue to attract many worshippers as cultural centers of the region.
Annual Events and Festivals of Kuizu Shrine
Kuizu Shrine holds various festivals and events throughout the year.
Main Annual Events
January:
- Saitansai (January 1st): A festival celebrating the New Year
- Hatsumōde (First Shrine Visit of the Year): The first three days of the New Year are bustling with many worshippers
February:
- Setsubunsai (Bean-Throwing Festival): Events such as bean-throwing
- Kinensai (Prayer for a Bountiful Harvest): A festival praying for a bountiful harvest
April:
- Fuji Matsuri (Wisteria Festival) (Koshigaya): A festival timed to coincide with the wisteria blooming season
September:
- Reisai (Annual Festival): The most important festival at each Kuizu Shrine (dates vary by shrine)
- At the Kuizu Shrine in Koshigaya, the annual festival is held around September 28th
November:
- Shichi-Go-San Pilgrimage: A visit to celebrate the growth of children
- Niinamesai (Harvest Festival): A festival giving thanks for the harvest
December:
- Ōharae-shiki (Great Purification Ceremony): A Shinto ritual to purify oneself of the sins and impurities of the year
About the Annual Festival
The annual festival is the most important ceremony at a shrine, a day dedicated to the worship of the enshrined deity. While the date of the annual festival varies among shrines, it is often held in the autumn and is an important event where local people gather.
On the day of the annual festival, the usual prayer reception hours may change, so those planning a first shrine visit (Hatsumiyamairi) or Shichi-Go-San (7-5-3) ceremony are advised to check in advance.
About Prayers and Worship
Types of Prayers
Kuizu Shrine accepts various types of prayers.
Life Rituals:
- First Shrine Visit (Omiyamairi)
- Shichi-Go-San Ceremony
- Coming-of-Age Ceremony
- Protection from Evil Spirits and Directional Misfortunes
Family and Life:
- Family Safety
- Traffic Safety
- Recovery from Illness
- Prayer for Safe Childbirth
- Prayer for Children
Business and Work:
- Business Prosperity
- Business Success
- Company Thriving
Other:
- Prayer for Passing Exams and Academic Achievement
- Prayer for Good Relationships and Matchmaking
- Fulfillment of Wishes
Prayer Reception Hours
General reception hours are from 9:00 AM to around 4:00 PM, but these vary depending on the shrine and time of year. Especially during busy periods such as festival days and New Year’s, reception hours may change, so it is recommended to check the official website of each shrine in advance.
Offering Fee (Prayer Fee)
The offering fee varies depending on the type and content of the prayer. Generally, the price starts from 5,000 yen, but please inquire with each shrine for details.
About Goshuin (Shrine Seals) and Goshuincho (Shrine Seal Books)
Issuance of Goshuin
At Kuizu Shrine, goshuin are issued as proof of worship. Goshuin are available at the shrine office after worship, and a donation of approximately 300 to 500 yen is usually required.
The design of the goshuin varies from one Kuizu Shrine to another, and some shrines offer seasonal goshuin. In particular, the limited-edition goshuin issued at the Iwatsuki Kuizu Shrine during the cherry blossom season is very popular.
Original Goshuincho (Shrine Seal Books)
Many Kuizu Shrines also offer original goshuincho. These books, reflecting the characteristics of the shrine, are popular as souvenirs of worship.
Highlights of Kuizu Shrine
Wisteria Trellis at Koshigaya’s Kuizu Shrine
The biggest highlight of Kuizu Shrine in Koshigaya is the wisteria trellis, a prefecturally designated natural monument. The tunnel of wisteria blossoms created by the approximately 200-year-old trees is breathtaking, and in late April, the purple flower clusters hang down beautifully.
During the wisteria festival, the trellis is illuminated at night, allowing visitors to enjoy a magical atmosphere.
Peacocks and Nature at Iwatsuki’s Kuizu Shrine
At Kuizu Shrine in Iwatsuki, the peacocks kept on the shrine grounds are a popular attraction. Since their dedication in 1938, they have been carefully nurtured as a symbol of the shrine, and if you’re lucky, you can see them spreading their beautiful feathers.
Furthermore, the shrine grounds are surrounded by lush forests and have been selected as one of Saitama Prefecture’s “Hometown Forests” and “100 Best Natural Sites.” It is also known as a spot for birdwatching, allowing visitors to enjoy a visit while experiencing nature.
Structures within the Shrine Grounds
Each Kuizu Shrine retains historical shrine buildings, torii gates, and guardian lion-dogs. In particular, the Kuizu Shrine in Iwatsuki holds the status of a prefectural shrine, and its magnificent shrine architecture can be seen there.
Access and Visiting Information
Access to Koshigaya’s Kuizu Shrine
Train/Bus:
- Approximately 20 minutes on foot from the East Exit of Koshigaya Station on the Tobu Skytree Line
- Immediately after alighting at the Kuizu Shrine bus stop (Asahi Bus)
Car:
- Approximately 30 minutes from Urawa IC on the Tohoku Expressway
- Parking available (free)
Address: 1700 Koshigaya, Koshigaya City, Saitama Prefecture
Access to Iwatsuki’s Kuizu Shrine
Train:
- Approximately 15 minutes on foot from Iwatsuki Station on the Tobu Urban Park Line
Bus:
- Service to the Kuizu Shrine bus stop (Iwatsuki Ward Community Bus) began on May 1, 2025
Car:
- Approximately 10 minutes from Iwatsuki IC on the Tohoku Expressway
- Parking available (free)
Address: 2-6-55 Miyacho, Iwatsuki-ku, Saitama City, Saitama Prefecture
Notes for Visitors
- The shrine grounds are a sacred place. Please pray quietly.
- Photography is permitted, but please be considerate of festivals and other visitors.
- Please follow the regulations of each shrine regarding pets.
- The shrine is expected to be crowded during New Year’s and festivals. Please allow ample time for your visit.
Tourist Attractions Around Hisaizu Shrine
Around Koshigaya
Koshigaya Lake Town:
One of Japan’s largest shopping malls. It can be visited in conjunction with a visit to Hisaizu Shrine.
Walking Path Along the Motoarakawa River:
Walking along the Motoarakawa River from Hisaizu Shrine allows you to enjoy the changing seasons. The scenery is especially beautiful during cherry blossom season.
Around Iwatsuki
Iwatsuki Castle Ruins Park:
The ruins of Iwatsuki Castle, associated with Ota Dokan. It is also known as a famous cherry blossom viewing spot.
Iwatsuki, the Town of Dolls:
Iwatsuki has been a doll-making center since the Edo period. You can visit doll shops and doll museums.
Kuizu Shrine in the Reiwa Era
With the arrival of the Reiwa era, Kuizu Shrine is pursuing new initiatives while preserving its traditions.
Information Dissemination on Social Media
Many Kuizu Shrines disseminate information on their official websites and social media (X, Instagram, etc.). You can check festival information, seasonal highlights, and Goshuin (shrine stamp) information in real time.
Online Applications
Some Kuizu Shrines accept advance reservations for prayers and various applications online. You can check the details on their official websites.
Collaboration with the Community
Kuizu Shrine is involved in various local events and cultural activities as a center of the local community. It also plays a role in passing on the history and culture of the region to the next generation.
Summary: Visiting the Kuizu Shrines
The Kuizu Shrines, representing Saitama Prefecture, exhibit diverse forms, ranging from ancient shrines with a history of approximately 1400 years to small, locally rooted shrines.
Each shrine has its own unique characteristics and is worth visiting, including the head shrine Tamashiki Shrine, the Kuizu Shrine in Koshigaya known for its wisteria, and the Kuizu Shrine in Iwatsuki, which served as the guardian shrine of Iwatsuki Castle and protected Edo from evil spirits.
The Kuizu Shrines, dedicated to Okuninushi-no-Mikoto, are known for various blessings, including matchmaking, business prosperity, and protection from evil. Please visit the Kuizu Shrines for prayers at important life milestones or to express daily gratitude.
With their seasonal beauty, historic shrine buildings, and the thriving faith of the local people, the Kuizu Shrines are a must-visit when you are in Saitama Prefecture.
Before visiting, please check the latest information on each shrine’s official website and offer your prayers with a calm and respectful heart. I hope that the deities of Hisaizu Shrine will bring good fortune to everyone.
