Hokkaido Jingu
The spiritual guardian of the northern frontier, surrounded by cherry blossoms and elm trees.
Established in 1869 by order of Emperor Meiji to protect the development of Hokkaido. It is the most important shrine in Hokkaido and a popular spot for cherry blossom viewing.
History of the Shrine
When the colonization of Hokkaido began in 1869, Emperor Meiji ordered the "three guardian deities of reclamation" to be enshrined here to give spiritual support to the pioneers facing the harsh northern wilderness.
Originally called "Sapporo Shrine", it was renamed "Hokkaido Jingu" in 1964 when the spirit of Emperor Meiji was also enshrined. It has watched over the growth of Sapporo from a small settlement to a major metropolis.
The Enshrined Kami
What to See
The shrine is located in Maruyama Park, a vast green space filled with wild squirrels and birds. In spring, it is one of the distinct places where cherry blossoms and plum blossoms bloom simultaneously.
There are four unique tea houses on the grounds where you can enjoy traditional sweets like 'Hangantsu' (buckwheat cake), available only here.
Major Festivals
The "Sapporo Festival" (Hokkaido Jingu Reitaisai) in mid-June is a major event where portable shrines and colorful floats parade through the center of Sapporo city, signaling the arrival of early summer.
Support Hokkaido Jingu
Your participation helps preserve this sacred site for future generations. Every digital offering contributes to real shrine preservation efforts across Japan.
By making an offering, you become part of a global community honoring Japanese spiritual traditions and supporting the cultural heritage that has been cherished for centuries.