Shinshinotsu Shrine (新篠津神社) is the main shrine of the village of Shinshinotsu. It is located at Kita-13 Dai 47 Sen in the village of Shinshinotsu in Hokkaido Prefecture, Japan.
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| Shinshinotsu Shrine |
Shinshinotsu Shrine details
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| Shinshinotsu Shrine - Shinshinotsu Village, Hokkaido Prefecture |
The history of Shinshinotsu Shrine dates back to 1896 during the Meiji era. In that year, three deities - Amaterasu-sume-Okami, Okuninushi-no-Okami, and Amenokaguyama-no-Mikotowere - were enshrined to provide a place of worship for immigrants. This initial step towards establishing the shrine laid the foundation for its future significance in the community.
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| 村社新篠津神社 |
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| Shinshinotsu Shrine torii gate |
Fast forward to 1911, in the Meiji 44 era, and the town was granted permission to officially establish a shrine. This permission came in July of that year after an application was submitted the previous month. The construction of the shrine began soon after, marking the beginning of its presence in the community. However, during this early period, the shrine did not hold a significant status.
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| The pathway to Shinshinotsu Shrine's main hall |
It was not until January 21, 1925, that Shinshinotsu Shrine was officially recognized and ranked as a village shrine. This elevated status cemented its importance in the local area and solidified its role as a place of worship and spiritual guidance.
Shinshinotsu Shrine Main Hall
Over time, the aging structure of the shrine began to deteriorate. In response to this, a new shrine building was constructed on November 10, 2000. This new building was designed and built in the Shinmei-zukuri architectural style, a traditional style commonly seen in Hokkaido. This renovation ensured that the shrine maintained its historical and cultural significance while providing a durable and visually appealing space for worship.
Things to see in Shinshinotsu Shrine Grounds
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| You will see the omikuji tied to the branches of this holy tree |
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| Loyalty Monument (忠魂碑) |
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| Protection Monument (護國之處) |
Shinshinotsu Shrine's komainu
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| Shinshinotsu Shrine's un-gyo |
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| Shinshinotsu Shrine's a-gyo |
Presently, Shinshinotsu Shrine occupies a shrine area of approximately 23 square meters. It serves as a spiritual home for around 1,400 households, providing a place for them to connect with the deities enshrined and seek solace in their religious practices. The shrine continues to be a respected and revered institution in the community, carrying forward its legacy from its humble beginnings in the late 19th century.
Team Nicerio visits Shinshinotsu Shrine
My family and I visited Shinshinotsu Shrine for the first time last October 8, 2022, during our 3-day “October 8-10” Road Trip. It was my 341st day in Japan as an ALT under the JET Programme. Just like our shrine visits, we went to pay respects and offer prayers. My daughter and I also made a wish as part of our 1st-time shrine visit tradition.
Shinshinotsu Shrine Fees
It’s FREE to enter and explore Shinshinotsu Shrine grounds.
Shinshinotsu Shrine Operating Hours
Shinshinotsu Shrine is open 24 hours every day. However, it is not well lit during the night so it is highly recommended that you visit in the morning.
Why visit the Shinshinotsu Shrine?
Shinshinotsu Shrine has a rich history that spans over a century. From its establishment in 1896 to its recognition as a village shrine in 1925, the shrine has played a vital role in the religious and cultural life of the community. It might not be as big or as grand as the famous shrines of Kyoto or Nara but Shinshinotsu Shrine offers its unique beauty. It’s also a place to visit if you collect goshuin.
Getting to Shinshinotsu Shrine
From Sapporo Station, ride the Local Iwamizawa train of the Hakodate Line. Board down at Kami-Horomui Station and walk towards the nearby Kami Horomui bus stop.
Board the Shinshinotsu - Iwamizawa Line Shinshinotsu Onsen Tappu no Yu bus operated by the Shinshinotsu-kotsu. Board down at the Shinshinotsu Shigai bus stop.
Once there, walk for about 300 meters going to Shinshinotsu Shrine.
Travel time: 1 hour and 4 minutes
Fare: 1,230 yen
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