氷川神社, Shinto shrine in Japan
Hikawa Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Sagamihara set within a quiet residential area and featuring traditional architecture. The grounds contain a large torii gate at the entrance, a main prayer hall, stone lanterns, and several smaller shrines connected by well-maintained pathways.
The shrine was established in 1843 as a guardian place for the local community and has served this role ever since. The main prayer hall was constructed in 1866, while the principal building dating to around 1846 features iron-clad construction and traditional woodwork.
The shrine is dedicated to Susanoo, a deity associated with water, rice cultivation, and prosperity, and remains an important focal point for local community gatherings and rituals. Visitors follow traditional practices such as placing offerings and purchasing talismans tailored to specific wishes, from safe childbirth to academic success.
The shrine is roughly ten minutes on foot from Sagamihara Station and about fifteen minutes from Minami Hashimoto Station. A parking lot opens after January 5th, so before that date visitors should use nearby paid parking or commercial facilities.
An old legend tells of a time when many people were troubled by fox spirits, prompting priests to perform six days of exorcism prayers. Within the grounds stands a special mound known as the fox-fire site, which locals regard as sacred.
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