Just about an hour from Tokyo is “Little Edo.” Kawagoe is known for its many old, Japanese-style houses that line the streets, making it very popular among locals and travelers alike. The dark exteriors of the houses standing in a row take you straight back into the Edo Period. One of the top attractions here is Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine, famous for matchmaking and praying for love! In 2026, you can once again enjoy the magical summer event called Enmusubi Furin.
Enmusubi Furin (縁結び風鈴)
This event is scheduled to be held from late June to mid-September 2026. Over 2,000 colorful Edo-style wind chimes (furin) are hung around the shrine, ringing in the breeze to create a beautiful, cooling summer atmosphere. Enmusubi means praying for blessings in love and lasting connections.
With thousands of wind chimes, there are endless photo opportunities! Wearing a yukata (summer kimono) is the perfect way to capture the seasonal spirit.
Each chime has a strip of paper (tanzaku) where you can write your wishes for romance or happiness in your current relationships.
You can also walk through the iconic wind chime corridors, which are incredibly popular on social media.
Tradition Meets Fun
Hikawa Shrine is famous for its dense tunnel of ema (wooden prayer plaques). It’s fascinating to see the heartfelt wishes left by visitors from all over the world.
A unique talisman of this shrine shaped like a carp. You can pick your fortune (omikuji) by fishing out one of these. In Japanese, Koi (鯉) is the word for carp which is a homonym for the word, love, Koi (恋).
These wind chimes are lit up at night creating a warm, soft glow. Various areas around the shrine are also lit up at night so you we recommend you visit in the afternoon so that you can enjoy till late evening.
If Kawagoe is on your list, don’t miss Hikawa Shrine and pray for LOVE
Details
Enmusubi Furin: Late June – Mid-September 2026
Hikaru Kawa / Light-up: Typically daily from 19:00 – 20:00 during the event period.
Admission: Free
Closest Stations: Kawagoe Station (Tobu Tojo Line/JR) or Hon-Kawagoe Station (Seibu Shinjuku Line).
Official Website
