Koshigaya Katori Shrine [Saitama]

【Overview of Koshigaya Katori Shrine】

While the specific calendar year of its establishment is unknown, Koshigaya Katori Shrine is said to have been founded during the Oei era (1394–1428) of the Muromachi period. At that time, this region did not belong to Musashi Province (which encompasses present-day Tokyo, Saitama, and parts of Kanagawa) but was instead part of Shimousa Province (present-day Chiba and southwestern Ibaraki). Consequently, the divine spirit was formally transferred and enshrined (kanjo) from Katori Jingu in Chiba Prefecture—the highest-ranking shrine (Ichinomiya) of Shimousa Province—marking its beginning as the guardian deity protecting Osawa Village.

A total of 14 deities are enshrined here, with Futsunushi-no-Okami serving as the primary deity. Among these 14 deities, Konohanasakuya-hime-no-Mikoto is prominently enshrined, which has made Osawa Katori Shrine highly popular, particularly among women, as a sacred site for praying for conception and safe childbirth.

Shrines bearing the name “Katori” are common, with more than a dozen existing in Koshigaya City alone. In modern times, to differentiate it from other Katori shrines, it has come to be called “Osawa Katori Shrine” based on its location in the Osawa district, or “Koshigaya Katori Shrine” to denote its status as a grand, representative Katori shrine of the city. While its official, legal name is simply “Katori Shrine,” this article uses “Koshigaya Katori Shrine” for clarity.

【The Shrine Approach (Sando)】

Though the approach is relatively short, spanning only a few dozen meters, it possesses a modern beauty that completely transforms its expression season by season, featuring seasonal decorations like pinwheels and wind chimes. On the day of my visit, it was adorned with a beautiful wisteria trellis canopy.

【The Shrine Buildings (Shaden)】

Because the previous structures had suffered severe deterioration over a long period of time, the main buildings were beautifully rebuilt in 1868 (the first year of the Meiji period).

The structure features exquisite wood carvings that depict artisans actively working during the late Edo period—a motif that is exceptionally rare across Japan. It is currently designated as a Tangible Cultural Property of Koshigaya City.

【The Sacred Matchmaking Tree】

Standing behind the main sanctuary (tucked away on the back-left side) is a sacred ginkgo tree (Oi-cho) estimated to be approximately 100 years old.

Among the 14 deities merged and enshrined together at this site are Izanagi-no-Mikoto and Izanami-no-Mikoto, the very first married couple of deities in Japanese mythology. Within this precinct, which is charged with the power of the unbreakable bond of this ultimate divine couple, this grand ginkgo tree standing right beside the main sanctuary was chosen to serve as a sacred vehicle (yorishiro) symbolizing the connection between the gods and worshippers.

【Subsidiary Shrine: Yasaka Shrine】

To the right of the main building stands a small but beautiful subsidiary shrine. Its structure is said to have been crafted during the Edo period, preserving the highly intricate and deeply flavorful craftsmanship of the artisans of that era.

The enshrined deity is Susanoo-no-Mikoto.

【Subsidiary Shrine: Inari Shrine】

Tucked quietly away behind Yasaka Shrine, completely hidden from the view of the parking lot, stands an Inari Shrine.

The enshrined deity is Ukanomitama-no-Kami.

【Koshigaya Katori Shrine Goshuin】

【Nearby Tourist Spots (Within a 30-Minute Walk)】

Hisaizu Shrine, Tengaku-ji Temple, Daisho-ji Temple

Hisaizu Shrine [Saitama]

Shitozan Tengaku-ji Temple [Saitama]

Osagami Fudoson Daisho-ji Temple [Saitama]

【Koshigaya Katori Shrine Access】

関連投稿(Related Posts):

Hisaizu Shrine [Saitama] Osagami Fudoson Daisho-ji Temple [Saitama] Shitozan Tengaku-ji Temple [Saitama] Hikawa Shrine (Musashi Ichinomiya) [Saitama]