Sapporo Attractions｜Japan's northernmost shrine, the guardian deity of Hokkaido—Hokkaido Shrine

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Hokkaido Shrine was not developed until the late 19th century and was officially incorporated into Japan in 1869. In 1870, Emperor Meiji of Japan set up a "temporary shrine" in Sapporo. The following year, the "Sapporo Shrine" was established at the current site of Hokkaido Shrine. The three gods who opened up Hokkaido are enshrined here, including Okunikonami, Okinamunchi, and Sukunahikona. They are collectively known as the "Three Gods of Opening Up". It was not until 1964 that Emperor Meiji officially changed the name to "Hokkaido Shrine". It says " Hokkaido General Defense". Hokkaido Shrine also has very important strategic significance. In the early days of Hokkaido's development, the Hokkaido region was mostly facing Karafuto, Kuril Islands and other places. In order to meet the defense needs against Russia, the main gate of the shrine faced northeast. This shows how important the Hokkaido Shrine is.

Transportation tips: Hokkaido Jingu Shrine is located in Maruyama Park in Sapporo. From Sapporo Station, take the Nanboku Line to Odori Station, transfer to the Tozai Line and get off at Maruyama Park Station. It is about a 15-minute walk to the Shrine. The city bus circular bus No. 20, West 14, and West 15 get off at Jingumae Station. For those who drive, there are Minami-ichi Parking Lot and Kita-ichi Parking Lot. If you come on weekdays, there are more than enough parking spaces.

There are several important torii gates at Hokkaido Jingu Shrine. Most tourists who arrive by subway enter from the "Maruyama Park Exit Torii Gate". This section is an uphill section and passes three small shrines along the way before reaching the main shrine. Don't forget First go to the "Sailor's House" next door to rinse your mouth and wash your hands. The Minamiichi parking lot is entered from the "Third Torii Gate". The Third Torii Gate is the direction of "increased deposits" in Feng Shui, so businessmen often worship at the Third Torii Gate and pray for a steady flow of money. The tour bus stops at the Kita-ichi parking lot and enters from the Reiwa Torii, which is also the location closest to the main shrine. The second torii gate is far from the subway station, so you can take a taxi here and get off. Walk past the torii gate and enter a long Omotesando, with many Somei Yoshino cherry trees and Ezoyama cherry trees planted on both sides. The main shrine is at the end. It is especially recommended to come during the snowy winter, as the three torii gates each have their own unique scenery. Have you noticed that the "First Torii" is not visible on the map? If you walk from the outer market, you will pass by the First Torii, a huge torii gate about four stories high, located on Kita-Ichi-dori outside the Hokkaido Jingu Shrine, spanning the driveway.

After visiting the shrine, remember to visit the Rokkatei Jingu Teahouse opposite the main shrine to enjoy the shrine's exclusive Houkanyaki and free hot tea. Houkanyaki is made from buckwheat and tastes similar to mochi. The outer layer is slightly crispy and salty, and paired with sweet but not greasy There are red bean paste and other limited products. On the way back, you will pass by the Jingu Tea House and the popular fortune cakes. The whole journey takes about 2 to 3 hours to complete. There are not many places to sit and rest in the shrine. There are places to take elders and children. Don't overbook your schedule.
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Post by 大叔衝日本 | Sep 5, 2024