For me, shrines in Japan have always been something I tried to avoid due to them being so similar and not really offering anything unique. And this still stands for shrines in Tokyo. Outside of Tokyo though, the shrines are beautifully surrounded by nature. Mitsumine shrine in Chichibu, Saitama is up ontop of a mountain with a superb view (if the weather is nice). Its not too crowded and if you're brave enough you can even hike up. It must be really worth it.

A wonderful temple to visit in Chichibu region. I took the bus from Seibu Chichibu Station and it took about 80min to come to this stop. The shrine is large and magnificent, with lots of areas and shops to explore. This area is also a hub for the hiking trail to Kumotori Mountain. I felt refreshed spiritually after visiting this temple.

Beautiful shrine in the mountains. Options to include a mountain hike. Mitsumine is a beautiful shrine high on the mountains outside of Chichibu (a little under an hour's drive). It is a great experience that is highly recommended. If you are feeling particularly energetic, you can hike from the temple (there's a good parking lot where you can leave your car) to several nearby mountain tops (between three and ten kilometres hiking away). Even if you're feeling less energetic, the temple offers great views of the area around. One tip would be to explore the temple before lunch and eat at the little restaurant on the temple grounds which has a balcony overlooking the mountains.

recommended place when you visit Chichibu. Very peaceful sacred shrine .we went on saturday in April so a bit crowded . Don't forget to check the bus schedule at the bus information center(near seibu chichibu st.)

It is located in the Okuchichibu Mountains in Saitama Prefecture. It is said to be the strongest power spot in the Kanto area, overflowing with the power of nature. The "enmusubi tree" is said to be 800 years old, and the "chi" from the sacred tree is said to be 800 years old. The "Haruhai-den" (far hall of worship) is also popular for its spectacular view of the sea of clouds, if you are lucky.

Mitsumin Temple is the oldest temple in Saitama Prefecture. It was built by Yamato Takeru in 712. The temple is located 6617 feet up the mountain. (1603-1868) Many residents of present-day Tokyo used to trek to Chichibu on foot to pray for protection.

So nice especially during autumn season! I Recommend when you’re around chichubu area!

Beautiful shrine with a great hike up to it, if you want. Very serene and peaceful. The architecture of the buildings is gorgeous and well kept.