Higashikagura Shrine - Hokkaido

Higashikagura Shrine (東神楽神社) is the main shrine of the town of Higashikagura. It is located at 1 Chome-2-2 Minami 1 Johigashi in the town of Higashikagura in Hokkaido Prefecture, Japan.

Higashikagura Shrine (東神楽神社)
Higashikagura Shrine

Higashikagura Shrine details

(Fall / Autumn)

Founded in 1897 by the pioneering spirits of the first settlers in the area, the Higashikagura Shrine stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of community and reverence. Originally part of the Imperial Land, meticulously managed by the Imperial Family, the area earned the moniker "East Imperial Land" due to its eastern location. However, in 1924, a pivotal moment in its history unfolded when the Imperial Forestry Bureau relinquished its hold, allowing the land to be sold to its tenants. With this transition, the shrine was christened "Higashi Kagura," cementing its place as a beacon of regional identity.

Higashikagura Shrine - Higashikagura town, Hokkaido Prefecture
Higashikagura Shrine - Higashikagura town, Hokkaido Prefecture

Delving into the etymology of the name Kagura unveils a captivating narrative. According to Mashiho Chisato's theory, Kagura finds its roots in the Ainu word "hetce-us-i," meaning "a place where music is played, where music is played." It is believed that this appellation was bestowed upon the area due to its propensity for song and dance, weaving a tapestry of cultural significance.

東神楽神社
東神楽神社

Higashikagura Shrine's main torii
Higashikagura Shrine's main torii

The scenic path from the main torii to the second torii
The scenic path from the main torii to the second torii

Higashikagura Shrine

Higashikagura Shrine's chozuya
Higashikagura Shrine's chozuya

Higashikagura Shrine's second torii
Higashikagura Shrine's second torii

Presently, Higashikagura Shrine stands as a sanctuary housing the revered deities Amaterasu-Okami, Sukunahiko-na-kami, and Okuninushi-kami. Encompassing a sprawling shrine area of 170.2 square meters, it serves as a spiritual cornerstone for approximately 2,900 households. Furthermore, the shrine holds a secondary name, "Yoshitsune Shrine," paying homage to the legendary figure Minamoto no Yoshitsune, who is said to have graced its hallowed grounds.

Higashikagura Shrine's Main Hall

Higashikagura Shrine's Main Hall

Higashikagura Shrine's Main Hall

Higashikagura Shrine's Main Hall

Higashikagura Shrine's Main Hall

Higashikagura Shrine's Main Hall

Higashikagura Shrine's Main Hall

Higashikagura Shrine's Main Hall

Higashikagura Shrine's Main Hall

What truly sets Higashikagura Shrine apart is its enchanting adornments. Vibrant pinwheels line the main approach to the shrine, casting a kaleidoscope of colors that captivate the senses and beckon travelers from far and wide. Not merely decorative, these pinwheels serve as a gateway to exploration, enticing visitors to delve deeper into the shrine's storied past and uncover its hidden treasures.

Higashikagura Shrine Monuments

Yoshitsudenai
Yoshitsudenai

Higashikagura Shrine Monuments

Higashikagura Shrine Monuments

Higashikagura Shrine grounds

Higashikagura Shrine Monuments

Sumo ring
Higashikagura Shrine's sumo ring

Higashikagura Shrine grounds

Higashikagura Shrine grounds

Higashikagura Shrine grounds

Higashikagura Shrine grounds

Higashikagura Shrine grounds

Higashikagura Shrine's komainus

Higashikagura Shrine's komainus

Higashikagura Shrine's un-gyo
Higashikagura Shrine's un-gyo

Higashikagura Shrine's a-gyo
Higashikagura Shrine's a-gyo

As you traverse the pathways of Higashikagura Shrine, you'll find yourself transported through time, guided by whispers of ancient rituals and modern marvels. Whether drawn by its historical significance or the allure of its vibrant pinwheels, a visit to this sacred site promises an unforgettable journey through Japan's cultural landscape.

Team Nicerio visits Higashikagura Shrine

Team Nicerio visits Higashikagura Shrine

Team Nicerio visits Higashikagura Shrine

Team Nicerio visits Higashikagura Shrine

Team Nicerio visits Higashikagura Shrine

Team Nicerio visits Higashikagura Shrine

Team Nicerio visits Higashikagura Shrine

Team Nicerio visits Higashikagura Shrine


My family and I visited Higashikagura Shrine for the first time last October 22, 2022, during our “October 22-23” Road Trip. It was my 355th day in Japan as an ALT under the JET Programme. Like most of our shrine visits, my family and I paid our respects and offered our prayers. We also made some wishes as part of our tradition after visiting a religious destination for the first time.

Higashikagura Shrine fees

It’s FREE to enter and explore Higashikagura Shrine grounds. However, if you wish to avail of the goshuin or buy some charms, make sure to bring cash.

Higashikagura Shrine's operating hours

Higashikagura Shrine grounds are open 24/7. However, the shrine office is open from 9 AM to 5 PM only.

Why visit Higashikagura Shrine?

If you are looking for a quiet place to relax or meditate then the Higashikagura Shrine grounds is the place to go. Aside from this, you can also get the goshuin here for your collection. 


Getting to Higashikagura Shrine

 

From the bus terminal in front of Asahikawa Station, board either bus #17 / #70 / #76 and board down at Higashikagura Bus Center (東神楽バスセンター). 

Once there, walk for about 260 meters to Higashikagura Shrine.

Travel time: 55 minutes

Fare: 600 yen


Ratings

Crowd

Cleanliness

Overall rating


Location: 1-chōme-2-2 Minami 1 Jōhigashi, Higashikagura, Kamikawa District, Hokkaido 071-1502, Japan

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