Hokkaido Shrine stands as a testament to Japan’s deep reverence for the divine. The story of Hokkaido’s transformation from an untamed frontier to the vibrant prefecture it is today is intricately tied to the shrine’s own history. This tale begins in 1869, when Emperor Meiji, the 122nd emperor and a champion of Western-inspired reform, renamed the northern land of "Ezochi" to "Hokkaido," meaning "Northern Sea Circuit." As part of the government’s effort to cultivate and settle the rugged terrain, he issued a decree to establish a shrine that would serve as the spiritual heart of this newly chartered land.
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Shima Yoshitake, a key figure in Hokkaido’s colonization and the mastermind behind Sapporo’s urban planning, proposed that the shrine enshrine the three deities of pioneering: Kunitama, a guardian of Japan and protector of colonial shrines across the empire; Ōkuninushi, the deity of nation-building, agriculture, medicine, and protective magic; and Sukunahikona, the god of hot springs, healing, agriculture, and sake brewing. These deities symbolized the resilience and aspirations of the settlers who braved Hokkaido’s harsh winters and untamed landscape.
In September of 1869, a sacred mirror containing the spirits of these deities was consecrated in Tokyo, the imperial capital, before making its way north. By 1870, a temporary shrine was erected along the banks of the Sōsei River, a man-made waterway that bisects central Sapporo. This modest structure, later known as Hokkaido Ichinomiya, marked the region’s spiritual foundation.
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A year later, in 1871, the shrine found its permanent home in Maruyama, a location chosen for its natural beauty—cradled by mountains on three sides with an opening onto vast plains. However, the journey to completion was not without hardship. The roads were rough, funds were scarce, and the settlement was still in its infancy. Yet, through sheer determination and the unwavering faith of the settlers, the shrine was built.
Nearly a century later, in 1964, Emperor Meiji himself was enshrined alongside the three deities, transforming the shrine into a four-pillared sanctuary of divinity and officially renaming it Hokkaido Shrine. In 1974, tragedy struck when a devastating arson attack destroyed the main hall. However, the shrine was lovingly restored in 1978, thanks to the dedicated efforts of the local community.
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Today, the shrine grounds offer a serene escape into nature. In spring, both cherry and plum blossoms bloom in unison, an unusual phenomenon that makes this one of the most enchanting hanami (flower viewing) spots in Hokkaido. The grounds are also home to sazare-ishi, the famed "pebble rocks" referenced in Japan’s national anthem, symbolizing endurance and unity.
Hokkaido Shrine remains a vital part of Sapporo’s cultural fabric, most notably during the annual Sapporo Festival on June 15th. This grand celebration, featuring elaborate processions and traditional performances, is a testament to the shrine’s enduring significance.
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But beyond its role as a place of worship, Hokkaido Shrine is a living symbol of history—a meeting point between past and future, where the people of today honor the generations before them and those yet to come. A visit here is not just a glimpse into Shinto tradition, but a journey through the spirit of Hokkaido itself.
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Let MK be your personal guide to Hokkaido Shrine Sapporo and beyond. Immerse yourself in the rich history, spiritual heritage, and natural beauty of this iconic Shinto sanctuary. Explore Maruyama Park, seasonal festivals, and nearby cultural landmarks with ease. With our luxury vehicles and English-speaking drivers, you can customize your journey for a seamless and unforgettable experience in Sapporo. MK Sapporo
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