Memambetsu Shrine (女満別神社) was formerly the main shrine of the town of Memambetsu before it was merged with Higashimokoto to create the town of Ozora in 2006. Currently, in a way, it still serves as the main shrine of the town of Ozora. It is located at 2 Chome-2-1 Memanbetsu Park in the town of Ozora in Hokkaido Prefecture, Japan.
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| Memambetsu Shrine |
Memambetsu Shrine details
Memambetsu Shrine has a rich history and cultural significance dating back to the early 1900s. Originally a small shrine occupying half a tsubo, it was believed to be an Ainu ritual site and dedicated to Amaterasu Omikami, the guardian deity of the village. Unfortunately, a devastating wildfire destroyed the shrine in 1912.
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| Memambetsu Shrine - Ozora town, Hokkaido Prefecture |
The villagers determined to restore their sacred place, came together and constructed a new temple, worship hall, and shrine office at Nishi 3-jo 4-5 later that same year. Recognizing its importance, the shrine was elevated to village company status in Taisho 15. Its central location in the town offered great convenience for the locals.
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| Memambetsu Shrine's torii gate |
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| Memambetsu Shrine's chozuya |
Memambetsu Shrine Main Hall
However, as urban planning concerns arose, the issue of relocation became unavoidable. Thus, in 1981, Memanbetsu Shrine was moved to its present location in Memanbetsu Park, where it proudly stands as a testament to the community's dedication to preserving its cultural heritage.
Things to see in Memambetsu Shrine grounds
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| Pioneer Monument |
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| 橋爪九十太翁之碑 |
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| Beautiful ema's are tied near the Main Hall |
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| The Garden of Memambetsu Shrine |
Memambetsu Shrine Komainu
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| Memambetsu Shrine Komainu |
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| Memambetsu Shrine's a-gyo |
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| Memambetsu Shrine's un-gyo |
Team Nicerio visits Memanbetsu Shrine
My family and I visited Memambetsu Shrine for the first time last September 19, 2022, which was the last day of our September 17-19 Road Trip. It was my 322nd day in Japan as an ALT under the JET Programme. It was included in our itinerary as we have a family tradition of visiting the main shrine of the city, town, or village that we have visited for the first time. During our visit, we paid respects and offered some prayers. Before leaving we made some wishes which was also part of our family tradition.
Memambetsu Shrine Fees
It’s FREE to enter and explore Memambetsu Shrine grounds. However, if you collect goshuin, you need to bring some cash along with you.
Memambetsu Shrine Operating Hours
Memambetsu Shrine grounds are open 24/7. However, the shrine office is open from 9 AM to 5 PM.
Why visit Memambetsu Shrine?
Memambetsu Shrine serves as the main shrine of the town of Ozora. The locals visit it to offer prayers and sometimes wish for healing or good luck. If you have the same belief then you should add this shrine to your pilgrimage itinerary. Aside from that, Memambetsu Shrine is also a must-visit if you collect goshuin.
Getting to Memambetsu Shrine:
From Asahikawa Station, board the Taisetsu 1 Limited Express Abashiri of the Okhotsk-Taisetsu Line. Board down at Memambetsu Station and walk about 1.2 kilometers to Memambetsu Shrine.
Travel time: 3 hours 51 minutes
Fare: 8,230 yen
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