Titibu

Carving of Dragon at Titibu Shrine

Saitama prefecture is on the north side of Tokyo. I guess this prefecture can be classified into two districts: east and west. East district is a densely populated area, which has prosperous industries and commercial area. Needless to say, there are many big cities (Saitama, Ageo, Kawagoe, etc.). In short, it is an urban area.

West district's name is "Titibu". 95% of Titibu district is a mountainous area, and its climate is extremely severe. On summer it is too hot. On winter it is too cold. Therefore its population is quite a few and decreasing. Well, it is a rural area.

But, it is a good place for sightseeing. At Titibu, there are many beautiful mountains and rivers where lovely flowers and animals are living. Moreover, you can see many ancient shrines and temples. I guess Titibu's severe climate made its people so religious.

At Titibu, There are 3 famous shrines: Mitumine Shrine, Hodosan Shrine and Titibu Shrine. Titibu Shrine is the most convenient place to visit because it is located near Titibu Station (Seibu Line or Titibu Line). Its main building (please see Home Page) was made on 1592 by famous politician and general "TOKUGAWA Ieyasu". There are many beautiful carvings in wood (dragons, owls and tigers) which were made by famous artist "HIDARI Zingoro".

At Titibu district, there are 34 important Buddhist Temples. Going on a pilgrimage around these temples were religious duty for ancient people. But for even the modern Japanese who are not so religious, it is a good experience to see some of these beautiful temples.

Entrance of Saikou Temple

First, I show you picture about Saikou Temple, which means "West Light Temple". According to Buddhism, Heaven is believed to be located westward. So, West Light is a sacred word. By visiting this temple, you can see about 100 statues of Buddha. I guess it is an efficient place to know variety of Buddhist beauty. Moreover there is a building which was founded more than 600 years ago.


Main building of Saikou Temple	It is said that this building was established more than 600 years ago.

Next, I will show you "Zigen Temple", which means "Temple for protecting our eyes."

Main building of Zigan Temple

For modern people, it is difficult to maintain good eyesight, so you'd better visit this ancient spot.

These 3 spot are located only 3~15 minutes' walk from Titibu Station (Seibu Line and Titibu Line).

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Zindai Temple Nagatoro Akeno Kamogawa Yokohama

Titibu(1) Titibu(2) Syowa Kinen Park

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