About Izumo Taisha Saitama Branch
Izumo Taisha Saitama Branch is an official branch of Izumo Taisha, located in Asaka City, Saitama Prefecture. As the only branch in the Kanto region officially authorized by the Izumo Taisha main shrine in Izumo City, Shimane Prefecture, it enshrines Okuninushi-no-Okami, known as the god of matchmaking.
Deity and History
The enshrined deity is Okuninushi-no-Okami. He is a god of nation-building who appears in the Kojiki and Nihon Shoki, and is affectionately known as “Daikoku-sama.”
Established in 1988 as a missionary center for the Izumo Taisha sect, it became an official branch in 1992. It enshrines the same deity as the main shrine and inherits the same faith.
Features of the Shrine Grounds
Main Hall and Worship Hall
The main hall is built in the same Taisha-zukuri style as the main Izumo Taisha shrine, creating a solemn atmosphere. A magnificent shimenawa (sacred rope) hangs in front of the worship hall, evoking the traditions of Izumo Taisha.
Subsidiary Shrines and Points of Interest
- Musubi no Goshinzo: A popular spot where many visitors take photos, symbolizing matchmaking.
- Inaba no Hakusai Statue: An adorable statue that tells the myth of Okuninushi-no-Okami.
- Enmusubi no Ito: A special place where red threads of good fortune in love are tied.
Points for Worship
Correct Worship Etiquette
Izumo Taisha has unique worship etiquette that differs from that of typical shrines.
Two Bows, Four Claps, One Bow
- Two Bows: Bow deeply twice.
- Four Claps: Clap your hands four times (usually twice at other shrines).
- One Bow: Bow deeply once at the end.
This ritual is the same as that of Izumo Taisha Shrine and shows even greater respect to the gods.
How to Visit
- Passing Through the Torii Gate: Bow before entering the shrine grounds.
- Purifying at the Water Basin: Left hand → Right hand → Mouth → Left hand
- Worship at the Main Hall: Follow the ritual of two bows, four claps, and one bow.
- Visiting the Subsidiary Shrines: Also worship the statue of Musubi (the god of marriage) and the White Rabbit statue.
Recommended Visiting Times
- Weekday Mornings: Quiet and peaceful for worship.
- Weekends: Bustling with worshippers praying for matchmaking.
- New Year’s Visit Period: Extremely crowded from January 1st to 3rd, so allow ample time.
Benefits and Prayers
Main Benefits
Matchmaking and Romantic Fulfillment
Okuninushi-no-Okami is Japan’s number one god of matchmaking. He has the divine power to bring about good relationships in all kinds of ways, not just romantic ones.
- Success in Love
- Success in Marriage
- Prayer for Reconciliation
- Prayer for a Good Match
Other Benefits
- Business Prosperity: Good business relationships and relationships with clients
- Family Safety: Strengthening family bonds
- Protection from Misfortune and Bringing Good Fortune: Driving away disaster and inviting good fortune
- Conception and Safe Childbirth: From marital harmony to having children
About Prayers
Individual prayers are accepted by reservation only.
- Reception Hours: 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM
- Offering Fee: From 5,000 yen
- Duration: Approximately 20-30 minutes
- Reservation Method: By phone or in person at the shrine office
Special prayers, such as the Good Match Prayer Festival, are also held on special days.
Items Offered (Amulets and Goshuin Stamps)
Popular Amulets
Thread of Love
A representative item offered at Izumo Taisha Shrine. Made with red and white silk threads, it is sewn onto clothing or accessories. It is believed to attract good fortune in relationships.
Matchmaking Charm
A small, easy-to-carry charm. Available in pink and light blue, many couples purchase matching ones.
Bell of Happiness
A cute charm whose bell sound is said to bring happiness. It comes as a strap and can be attached to a cell phone or bag.
Goshuin (Shrine Seal)
Available at the shrine office (donation of 300 yen). Features beautiful calligraphy and the red seal of Izumo Taisha Saitama Branch. Original goshuin notebooks are also available.
Access Information
Access by Train
Using the Tobu Tojo Line
- 5-minute walk from the South Exit of Asaka Station (nearest station)
- Approximately 15 minutes by express train from Ikebukuro Station
- Exit the ticket gate and head to the South Exit, then proceed straight along the street in front of the station.
Using the JR Musashino Line
- 7-minute walk from Kita-Asaka Station
- Connected to Tobu Tojo Line Asaka Station via a connecting passageway
Access by Car
Kan-Etsu Expressway
- Approximately 15 minutes from Wako IC
- Via National Route 254 (Kawagoe Kaido)
Metropolitan Expressway
- Approximately 20 minutes from the Takashimadaira exit of Expressway Route 5
Parking
- Free parking available (approximately 20 spaces)
- May be full during the New Year’s pilgrimage period and on weekends
- Coin parking available nearby
Address and Contact Information
- Address: 2-13-16 Honcho, Asaka City, Saitama Prefecture 351-0011
- Phone: 048-463-1111
- Visiting Hours: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Varies seasonally)
- Shrine Office Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Annual Events
Main Festivals
- January 1st: Saitansai (New Year’s Celebration)
- February 3rd: Setsubunsai (Bean-Throwing Ceremony)
- October (Lunar Calendar): Kamiarisai (Month When the Gods Gather)
- November 23rd: Niinamesai (Harvest Thanksgiving)
Monthly Festivals
Monthly festivals are held on the 1st and 15th of each month. General public attendance is possible.
Points to Note When Visiting
Attire
Casual attire is fine, but please note the following if you are receiving prayers:
- Avoid revealing clothing
- Shoes are preferable to sandals
- Remove your hat inside the main hall
Manners
- Smoking is prohibited on the shrine grounds
- Pets are generally not allowed
- Photography is permitted, but please be considerate of other visitors
- Please refrain from loud conversations
Surrounding Area Information
Nearby Tourist Attractions
- Asaka City Museum: 10-minute walk, where you can learn about local history
- Aobadai Park: 15-minute walk, famous for its cherry blossoms
- Kurome River: A riverside path with a well-maintained walking trail
Restaurants
There are many restaurants around the station, making it convenient for meals after visiting the shrine.
Summary
Izumo Taisha Saitama Branch is an authentic shrine for matchmaking that is easily accessible from central Tokyo. With the same enshrined deities and worship rituals as the main Izumo Taisha shrine, you can receive the divine blessings of the gods of Izumo while in the Kanto region.
It is believed to bring blessings for success in love and finding a good partner, as well as forging connections in all aspects of life, attracting many visitors. Its convenient location, just a 5-minute walk from Asaka Station, is also a major draw.
If you are hoping for a successful relationship or wish to visit Izumo Taisha, please consider visiting the Saitama branch shrine.
