Hodosan Shrine

Hodosan Shrine is one of the three major shrines of Chichibu, along with Chichibu Shrine and Mitsumine Shrine, and is located at the foot of Mount Hodosan in Nagatoro Town, Chichibu District, Saitama Prefecture. An inner shrine stands at the summit of Mount Hodosan and can be reached by the Hodosan Ropeway, with a round-trip fare of 820 yen for adults. The enshrined deities are Kamuyamatoiwarehiko no Mikoto (Emperor Jimmu), Oyama-tsumi no Kami, and Homusubi no Kami. Hodosan Shrine is a 10-minute walk from Nagatoro Station on the Chichibu Railway, and a large torii gate marks the entrance to the shrine approach, making it easy to find. Along the approach is the famous natural shaved ice shop Asami Reizo, a must-try local specialty. The approach is also lined with souvenir shops and restaurants. The shrine is believed to grant protection from fire and theft, ward off misfortune, ensure household safety, and bring prosperity in business. In spring, cherry blossoms bloom beautifully, and in autumn the area is illuminated during the fall foliage season, making it especially recommended to visit then. Mount Hodosan also features a small animal park where visitors can enjoy feeding animals.