Chichibu Shrine

Chichibu Shrine (秩父神社, Chichibu-jinja) is a historic Shinto shrine in the heart of Chichibu, celebrated for its rich history and artistic beauty. The shrine dates back over 1,000 years, with the current structures built in 1592 under the patronage of Tokugawa Ieyasu. Its standout feature is the exquisite carvings on the main hall, depicting tigers, dragons, and monkeys. These intricate works were created by the same artisans behind Nikko’s famous Toshogu Shrine, adding cultural prestige to this serene urban oasis surrounded by towering trees.

Just a short walk away is the Chichibu Festival Hall, a museum dedicated to the region’s vibrant festival traditions—especially the Chichibu Night Festival, held every December. The hall features an immersive theater, traditional garments, and musical instruments. A highlight is the pair of grand festival floats displayed on the first floor, which come alive during scheduled projection mapping shows that use lights and sound to recreate the festive spirit of Chichibu’s most iconic celebration.