Wishing for summer love in Koedo Kawagoe

When you think of Kawagoe in the summer, you think of its charming storehouse-lined streets and Hikawa Shrine, where the sound of wind chimes for matchmaking resonates. This time, I'll share my experience of going to see the wind chimes with a friend, wearing yukata and making a wish for love.

As I walked through the streets of Kawagoe at dusk, people in yukata came and went, and a nostalgic breeze blew through the air. I was wearing a pale wisteria-colored kimono with a goldfish-patterned obi. On my feet were geta sandals, which I wasn't quite used to wearing. But even that inconvenience felt like part of the charm.

Walking through the traditional storehouse-style shopping street in a yukata on the way from Kawagoe Station to Hikawa Shrine, you feel as if you've traveled back in time.
I was a little embarrassed but happy to receive compliments from locals and tourists saying things like, "Your yukata looks lovely."
On the way, we stopped at "Kashiya Yokocho" (Candy Alley), where we enjoyed nostalgic lemonade and handmade rice crackers, and discovered plenty of photogenic spots!

In the evening, we finally arrived at Hikawa Shrine. Upon entering the grounds, a "wind chime corridor" with countless wind chimes hanging from the ceiling unfolded before our eyes.
Each time the wind blows, a gentle, rustling sound resonates, giving you the feeling that your wishes are reaching the sky.

Each wind chime had a paper strip attached to it, on which various wishes were written, such as success in love or happiness for family. We also wrote our wishes on a paper strip and gently hung it up. Being surrounded by the sound of wind chimes while wearing yukata was truly a moment that made us feel like it was "Japanese summer."

How to get to Hikawa Shrine
Address: 2-11-3 Miyashitacho, Kawagoe City, Saitama Prefecture
Nearest station: JR Kawagoe Station or Tobu Tojo Line Kawagoe Station
How to get there:
Take the Tobu bus from Kawagoe Station and get off at "Hikawa Jinja-mae" (approx. 10 minutes)
It takes about 25 minutes on foot (we recommend taking a stroll while enjoying the kurazukuri streetscape)
Event period: Saturday, June 28th, 2025 to Monday, September 15th (National Holiday)

Conclusion: A summer connection forged by wind chimes
Visiting Kawagoe's Enmusubi Wind Chimes in a yukata was more than just sightseeing; it was a soul-cleansing experience.
Make a wish through the sound of the wind chimes and deepen your bond with your loved ones - why not try experiencing this summer memory for yourself?