Koma Shrine is located in Hidaka City, Saitama Prefecture. It is dedicated to Jakko, who was a member of the royal family of Koguryo(also written “Goguryeo”, from 37 B.C. to 668 A.D.). He came from the ancient kingdom of Koguryo on the Korean Peninsula. In 716, when Koma County was established in Musashi Province, he was appointed as the chief of Koma County and governed the area. In Japan, Koguryo was commonly called Koma.

 If you travel by train, JR Komagawa Station is the closest station, about a 20-minute walk from the shrine. Seibu Koma Station can also be used, but it takes about 50 minutes on foot. I chose the 50-minute walk from Koma Station. This area has low mountains such as Mount Hiwada, making it a good place for day hikes, so walking feels like a pleasant hike. I walked along a road called the “Kawasemi Road.” The sidewalk is narrow, and cars pass by quickly, so some caution is needed. I visited in September, and there were places along the way where cosmos flowers were blooming, which was very relaxing.
 The shrine has a large parking lot, so it is also possible to visit by car. Many of the cars that passed by me were probably heading to Koma Shrine. I do not know how many cars can park there, but if the lot is full, we may have to wait. If we are able to walk, I recommend walking as well.

 This temple is located very close to Koma Shrine. Its official name is Komasan Shoden-in Shoraku-ji Temple, but it is usually called simply Shoden-in. It is said to have been founded in 751 to pray for the soul of Jakko, who passed away in this area without ever returning to his homeland. His grave can be found within the temple grounds.