05/06/2026
Feel Refreshed by the Sound of Wind Chimes at the 1,500-Year-Old Iwatsuki Hisaizu Shrine
Saitama City is the capital of Saitama Prefecture, and the Iwatsuki area located in its eastern part is around one hour by train from Tokyo. Once flourishing as a castle town and post town, Iwatsuki is a historic area where many spots still retain traces of its past.
Located in Iwatsuki, Hisaizu Shrine is said to have been founded around 1,500 years ago.⛩️ Lush greenery stretches from the approach through the shrine grounds, creating a peaceful atmosphere filled with fresh air and tranquility.
Peacocks, beloved as symbols of the shrine, are kept within the grounds, and from spring to early summer visitors may catch sight of them displaying their magnificent feathers.🦚 Because peacocks are known to eat poisonous snakes and insects, they are considered symbols for warding off evil.
During the height of summer, the shrine grounds are decorated with hundreds of “Kujaku” wind chimes featuring peacock designs.🎐 The name “Kujaku” is written with characters meaning “warding off evil and hardship,” as they carry wishes for safely getting through the summer season.
The sight and sound of the wind chimes gently swaying together in the breeze creates a truly spectacular summer atmosphere. Visit and experience this seasonal tradition for yourself!
