Washinomiya Shrine in Kuki City, Saitama, holds a unique place in anime history. Following the 2007 broadcast of Lucky Star by Kyoto Animation, the shrine — model for the Hiiragi family shrine in the series — saw annual visitor numbers rise from around 10,000 to over 400,000 at peak. This transformation established the template for anime location tourism across Japan.
Washinomiya Shrine
The shrine is one of the Kanto region’s oldest, with history dating back over 2,000 years by tradition. The main torii gate, stone lanterns, and wooded approach match the Lucky Star shrine closely. The shrine office sells anime-themed ema (wishing plaques) and goods. New Year hatsumode visits attract the largest numbers of anime fans each January.
Kuki City Collaboration
The local shopping street near the shrine features character murals, themed goods at several shops, and the welcoming atmosphere of a community that has genuinely embraced its anime identity. The Kuki City and shrine staff actively support the fan culture around the location.
Legacy
Washinomiya’s transformation established the model followed by Oarai (for Girls und Panzer), Hida Furukawa (Your Name), Uji (Sound! Euphonium), and dozens of other towns across Japan that now collaborate with anime productions to attract tourism visitors.
Access
Take the Tobu Isesaki Line from Asakusa to Kuki station (about 50 minutes), then a 20-minute walk or short taxi to the shrine. The total journey from central Tokyo takes around one hour.
Best Time to Visit
New Year (January 1 to 3) for hatsumode with anime-themed decorations. The annual fan event in August brings the pilgrimage community together each summer.
