Hokkaido Shrine

Hokkaido Shrine (Hokkaido Jingu) is a shrine in Sapporo adjacent to Maruyama Park. Because it is also near Maruyama Zoo, it is a lively spot visited by many tourists every day. A notable feature is that one of its torii gates faces northeast, said to reflect its historical role during Hokkaido’s development as a spiritual protector against the Russian Empire. The shrine was established during the era of Hokkaido’s pioneering, enshrining the "Kaitaku Sanshin" (Okunitama-no-Kami, Onamuchi-no-Kami, and Sukunahikona-no-Kami) as guardian deities brought from Tokyo, and it was named Hokkaido Shrine. In recent years, it has also become well known as a power spot. Of the four deities associated with Hokkaido, one (Okunitama-no-Kami) is enshrined at Hokkaido Shrine, and there is a belief that visiting all four related sites brings good fortune. It is one of Sapporo’s most popular power spots, especially among younger visitors. To reach Hokkaido Shrine, take the subway from the Sapporo Station area, transfer at Odori Station to the Tozai Line, get off at Maruyama-Koen Station, then walk through Maruyama Park for a couple of minutes to arrive.