Kitain (喜多院), located in Kawagoe, is a 9th-century temple renowned for its collection of 540 playful Rakan (statues of Buddha) and for being home to the only remaining buildings of the former Edo Castle.
History
Founded in 830 by monk Ennin, Kitain was originally part of a three-temple complex named Muryoju Temple, which included Kitain (North Temple), Nakain (Middle Temple), and Minamiin (South Temple). During the early-14th century, Kitain became the head temple of the Tendai Sect in the Kanto region. Later, in 1599, it became the main temple of Muryoju under the guidance of head monk Tenkai, who had strong relationships with the first three shogun of the Edo Period.
In 1638, after a fire destroyed most of Kitain, Shogun Iemitsu ordered several buildings from Edo Castle to be moved to the temple to help rebuild it. Although the fire was tragic, the castle buildings’ relocations likely saved them as Edo Castle was later heavily damaged by the Earthquake of 1923 and World War II.
Today
Today, Kitain’s preserved castle buildings and whimsical statues make it a must-see spot in Kawagoe. In spring, the temple is especially beautiful when cherry blossoms color the sacred area pastel pink. Other noteworthy spots are the temple’s pagoda and traditional gardens. Wander the tranquil grounds, and find the spots that speak to you. Listed below are Kitain’s top delights:
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One of the most alluring features of Kitain is its over 500 statues of Buddha. These small stone Buddhas were each crafted with unique expressions, creating scenes that are visually intriguing from all angles. Peruse the countless interpretations and admire the different silhouettes, mouth orientations, eye movements, and actions. Find the Buddha statue that most resembles you!
As mentioned above, Kitain is the location of the only remaining buildings of Edo Castle. Today, these buildings are regarded as national treasures and have been converted into a museum. One of the most impressive spots is an ornately designed room with a floral ceiling, which is believed to be where Iemitsu was born. Step back in time and explore the historic halls.
Toshogu Shrine was built in 1633 to commemorate Shogun Ieyasu Tokugawa. Although the building was destroyed in the 17th-century fire, Shogun Iemitsu had it rebuilt. The vermillion structure bears resemblance to Nikko’s Toshogu Shrine and is a majestic sight.
Kitain’s original two counterparts, Nakain and Minamiin, although separate from Kitain now, are short walks from the temple grounds. Visit Nakain, which is its own temple complex, and Minamiin, which is only represented by a small graveyard.
Kitain Temple is about a 15-minute walk from Hon-Kawagoe Station on the Seibu Shinjuku Line.
The head temple of the Buddhist Tendai Sect, Kitain Temple has origins dating back to 830 A.D. Aside from the temple itself, the grounds are known for remnants of Edo Castle before the 1923 Earthquake as well as 540 inidivudally made Rakan statues.
Gohyaku Rakan, Buddha's 540 stone disciples at Kitain Temple in Kawagoe.
Every year on January 3rd several temples around Japan have a Daruma Market. A Daruma Doll is a type of talisman. People come to buy a new Daruma doll for the New Year. The Daruma doll has become one of several symbols of New Year. It is also a symbol of perseverance.
Fukutomi restaurant near Hon-Kawagoe station is a traditional kaiseki restaurant. Servers are dressed in kimono and the food is both delicious and aesthetically pleasing, delivered in an ambiance of a zen garden with indoor bamboo, water features, zen stones and a bridge.
Kocha Romankan Shimano Tea room in Koedo Kawagoe is a traditional tea room serving a selection of tea, confectionery and light meals. You can also get coffee too. The servers wear old style British tea lady outfits complete with a white laced apron and head piece.
Kawagoe Art Cafe Cafe Elevato has a bar on the first floor and a cafe on the second. One of the first buildings on Ichibangai, the main thoroughfare of the Edo period buildings and storehouse district of Kawagoe, it's a nice place to take a break while touring the town.
For those in love, looking for love, and everything in between, Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine is the perfect place to visit! Not to be confused with Hikawa Shrine in Omiya Ward, Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine is said to be about 1,500 years old and enshrines five deities, all of who are a part of the same family. Two pairs of the enshrined deities are married, making the Shinto shrine a popular place to pray for good fortune in marriage and family. The entrance to the shrine is marked by an impressive 15-meter-tall torii gate, which is painted bright orange and said to be the largest wooden torii in Japan. After you pass under the torii, purify yourself at the chozuya by ladling water from the wooden trough onto your hands. The elegant shrine buildings, interwoven with nature, make for a picturesque environment where positive vibes float on every breeze. Peruse the collection of more than 20 shrine structures of varying sizes and shapes and enjoy the lush nature, which features a tranquil stream running through the grounds. Listed below are Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine’s most popular sights and activities.
A two day trip in "Little Edo": traditional warehouses, floats and candy in Kawagoe, Saitama
Every year on the 3rd Saturday and Sunday of October it's time for the exciting Kawagoe Matsuri. It maintains a history of more than 360 years.
