While visiting Ichikawa, I made a special trip to Katsushika Hachimangu Shrine, which has a long history. Since the Heian period, Katsushika Hachimangu Shrine has been revered by samurai families and regarded as an important shrine in Shimosa Province. Walking there from Keisei-Yawata Station or JR Motoyawata Station, I passed through the torii gates and along the approach, and the noise of the city gradually gave way to the strong atmosphere of the shrine.
Continuing along the wide approach and passing through the vermilion Zuishinmon Gate, I came to the solemn main hall farther inside. The entire shrine is simple and peaceful, yet it also has a friendly, natural feeling. Occasionally, you can see local children playing nearby, adding a sense of everyday life to the ancient shrine.
The most impressive sight is the Senbon Ginkgo Tree beside the main hall. Countless trunks extend outward from the base of this enormous ginkgo tree, with branches reaching toward the sky and forming an extremely rare and magnificent shape. This ancient ginkgo tree has also been designated a National Natural Monument. Standing beneath it and looking up, you can truly feel the power left behind by the passage of time.
The ancient history, solemn shrine buildings, and lush greenery lining both sides of the approach make this more than just a place of worship. It feels like a historic oasis hidden within the streets of Ichikawa.
