When people think of Kawagoe (often called “Little Edo”), they usually picture historic clay-walled warehouses and sweet potato treats. But there is a hidden gem just a short trip from the town center that is taking Instagram by storm: Saimyoji Temple (最明寺).

Known for its breathtaking, colorful floral displays, Saimyoji is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience Japan’s traditional beauty with a modern, artistic twist.

What is a “Chozuya” (手水舎)?

Before diving into the flowers, it helps to understand the tradition. When you visit a Japanese temple or shrine, you will usually see a small pavilion with a water pavilion near the entrance. This is called a Chozuya (手水舎).

The Tradition:

Historically, visitors use the running water at the Chozuya to ritually purify their hands and mouths before stepping into the sacred area to pray. It is a beautiful ritual of cleansing one’s mind and body.

What is “Hanachozu” (花手水舎)?

In recent years, a beautiful new trend has blossomed across Japan: Hanachozu (花手水).

Instead of just holding clear water, the floating basins are filled with seasonal flowers like hydrangeas, roses, and sun flowers.

• The Origin: It originally started as a way to soothe the hearts of visitors, turning the purification fonts into vibrant, floating art pieces.
• Why it’s special: No two days look exactly the same! The flowers change with the seasons, making every visit a unique, once-in-a-lifetime view.

Saimyoji: The Pioneer of Hanachozu in Kawagoe

While many temples offer Hanachozu occasionally, Saimyoji Temple is famous for creating some of the most elaborate and frequent displays in the region.

But Saimyoji is not just about being “Instagrammable.” It is a temple with a deeply progressive and welcoming heart.

🌟 Why Saimyoji is unique:

• LGBTQ+ Friendly: Saimyoji is famous for being one of the first Buddhist temples in Japan to actively welcome and perform wedding ceremonies for same-sex couples. You will often see rainbow-themed Hanachozu to celebrate diversity!
• Global Awareness: The temple frequently designs its flower basins to reflect global events, peace movements, and charity awareness.
• Cultural Workshops: They often host yoga sessions, Zazen (meditation), and even allow visitors to try making their own miniature Hanachozu.

How to Get to Saimyoji Temple

Saimyoji is located slightly outside the main tourist strip of Kawagoe, making it a peaceful escape from the crowds.

Transport Type	Details
By Train & Walking	Take the Tobu Tojo Line or JR Kawagoe Line to Kawagoe Station. From there, it is about a 20-25 minute walk.
By Bus (Recommended)	From Kawagoe Station (West Exit), take the Tobu Bus bound for “Kasumigaseki” or “Surugadai University” and get off at the “Saimyoji-mae” (最明寺前) bus stop. It’s just a 1-minute walk from there!
By Bicycle	Renting a “Share Cycle” (COCOPO) at Kawagoe Station is a great, breezy way to ride directly to the temple.

• Address: 61 Maluya-cho, Kawagoe City, Saitama (埼玉県川越市小ヶ谷61)
• Admission: Free

Wrap Up

If you want to experience a side of Japan where ancient Buddhist tradition beautifully meets modern inclusivity and floral art, make sure to add Saimyoji to your Kawagoe itinerary. Don’t forget your camera!

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