From the station, you can take a bus, but I prefer walking to Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine. Along the way, you can not only see the distinctive streets that retain the atmosphere of the Edo period, but also get a sense of everyday life in the neighborhood. Turn down a side street with fewer tourists, and around the corner, a huge torii gate comes into view, immediately creating a solemn atmosphere.
Once you pass through the torii gate, the noise outside seems to disappear. The shrine is best known for its cute, colorful sea bream omikuji, which you fish for yourself to find your own fortune. Known as a place for matchmaking and spiritual energy, the shrine is filled with towering old trees, and simply spending time there feels incredibly comfortable and peaceful. If you want a change of pace without going too far from Tokyo, I highly recommend this restorative trip to recharge.
