Hokkaido Shrine | Sapporo

Hokkaido Shrine (北海道神宮, Hokkaidō Jingū) is one of the most important and revered Shinto shrines in Sapporo, located in Maruyama Park in the western part of the city. Dedicated to the deities of Hokkaido, it plays a significant role in both local history and the Shinto religion. The shrine is not only a place of worship but also a popular destination for visitors seeking a peaceful retreat amidst nature.

1. History and Background

Establishment: The Hokkaido Shrine was founded in 1869 during the Meiji period as part of a nationwide effort to establish Shinto shrines dedicated to the gods of the land in newly developed areas of Japan. The shrine was established to honor the gods of Hokkaido, particularly the Ainu deity Kamigami, as well as the Emperor Meiji, who played a key role in Japan's modernization during the 19th century.

Role: It has served as the spiritual center of Sapporo and a symbol of the region's development, especially as Hokkaido transitioned from a frontier land to a fully integrated part of Japan.

2. Key Features of Hokkaido Shrine

Main Shrine Building (Honden)

The main shrine building, or Honden, is an elegant structure with a simple yet dignified design, following the traditional Shinto architectural style. It is constructed using natural materials such as wood and features a thatched roof, a characteristic element of Shinto shrines.

The shrine is dedicated to the veneration of deities, including the Hokkaido Kamigami (gods of the land of Hokkaido), and is a place where visitors can offer prayers, pay respects, and participate in various religious ceremonies.

Sacred Grounds and Forest

The shrine is set in a tranquil forest in Maruyama Park, giving it a serene and natural atmosphere. Visitors often come to walk through the peaceful wooded area, which features pathways surrounded by trees that create a feeling of calm and spirituality.

The surrounding nature is a large part of the shrine's appeal. The forested area is especially beautiful during the changing seasons, with cherry blossoms in the spring, lush greenery in the summer, and vibrant autumn foliage in the fall. In winter, it becomes a snow-covered landscape, offering a picturesque and quiet experience.

Torii Gate

• The shrine's entrance is marked by a large torii gate. This traditional gate marks the boundary between the secular world and the sacred realm. The torii at Hokkaido Shrine is particularly striking, with its towering wooden structure providing a majestic entrance into the sacred grounds.

Prayer Hall (Heiden)

• The Heiden is a hall where visitors can offer their prayers. It is situated just in front of the main shrine building. The architecture is characterized by its clean lines and serene surroundings, helping create an atmosphere conducive to worship.

3. Annual Festivals and Events

Hokkaido Shrine is an active center of religious and cultural life in Sapporo, hosting several key events and festivals throughout the year.

Sapporo Snow Festival (February)

• The Hokkaido Shrine is one of the main locations for the Sapporo Snow Festival, which takes place every year in February. While much of the festival takes place in Odori Park and Susukino, the shrine is also a focal point for various traditional rituals, prayers for safety during the winter season, and religious ceremonies.

Sanno Festival (June)

• The Sanno Festival (山王祭) is held every year in June at the Hokkaido Shrine. This festival honors the shrine’s deities and is known for its parade, which features miko (Shinto shrine maidens) and the carrying of portable shrines (mikoshi). It is one of the most important and widely attended events at the shrine and draws many visitors who come to witness the celebration of Shinto rituals and local culture.

New Year Celebrations

• The New Year is one of the busiest times of the year for the shrine. Every January, hundreds of thousands of people come to Hokkaido Shrine to participate in Hatsumode, the first shrine visit of the year. Many people visit to pray for good fortune, health, and prosperity in the coming year.

Autumn Festival

• The Autumn Festival is another major event, during which various Shinto rituals and performances take place to celebrate the harvest and give thanks to the gods for the year's bounty.

4. Visitors and Worship

Hatsumode (New Year's Visit): During New Year's, the shrine is particularly crowded with visitors participating in the traditional Hatsumode, the first shrine visit of the year. People come to pray for good fortune, health, and success for the coming year. It is a unique experience to visit the shrine during this time, as the atmosphere is filled with excitement and reverence.

Shinto Ceremonies and Weddings: Hokkaido Shrine is also a popular venue for Shinto weddings, where couples can hold their traditional marriage ceremonies. It is one of the more picturesque settings for a wedding, with its beautiful natural surroundings adding a special touch.

Omikuji and Ema: Visitors can draw omikuji (fortune slips) to learn their fate for the year or purchase ema (small wooden plaques) to write their prayers and wishes. The shrine provides a place for these traditional practices, adding to the cultural experience for visitors.

5. Hokkaido Shrine’s Natural Beauty

Maruyama Park: The shrine is located within Maruyama Park, one of the most popular green spaces in Sapporo. The park itself is home to a beautiful zoo, walking paths, and recreational areas. It's a great place to visit before or after your visit to the shrine, especially for those who want to enjoy nature, have a picnic, or just take in the scenery.

Seasonal Beauty: The shrine is stunning in all seasons:

• Spring: The park surrounding the shrine becomes a popular spot for cherry blossoms (sakura), making it a beautiful place for hanami (flower viewing).
• Summer: The shrine and surrounding forest provide a cool, shaded environment for visitors looking to escape the summer heat.
• Autumn: The foliage around the shrine turns vibrant shades of red and gold, making it a favorite spot for autumn leaf viewing (koyo).
• Winter: The shrine takes on a serene, snow-covered beauty during the winter months, adding a peaceful ambiance to the landscape.

6. Access to Hokkaido Shrine

• Address: 474 Miyagaoka, Chūō-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido
• By Subway: The shrine is easily accessible via Maruyama-Kōen Station on the Tozai Line. From the station, it’s a short walk to the shrine’s entrance.
• By Bus: Several buses pass near the shrine, with the closest stop being at Maruyama Koen.
• By Foot: If you're already in the downtown area, the shrine is within walking distance from Sapporo Station, although it might take around 20-30 minutes to reach it.

7. Conclusion

Hokkaido Shrine is a place of great spiritual and cultural significance in Sapporo. Its beautiful setting in Maruyama Park, coupled with its tranquil atmosphere and deep connection to the history of Hokkaido, makes it an essential destination for both locals and tourists. Whether you're visiting for a seasonal festival, a Shinto wedding, or just to experience its serene beauty, Hokkaido Shrine offers a unique opportunity to experience Japanese culture and spirituality amidst nature.