Sorachi Shrine - Hokkaido

Sorachi Shrine (空知神社) is the main shrine of the city. It is located at 1 Chome-1-1 Nishi 2 Jominami, Bibai City in Hokkaido Prefecture, Japan.

Sorachi Shrine

Sorachi Shrine details

Established in the 24th year of Meiji, alongside the migration of the agricultural cavalry unit and specialist units of engineers, Sorachi Shrine holds a unique place in local lore and tradition.

Sorachi Shrine - Bibai City, Hokkaido Prefecture

The roots of Sorachi Shrine run deep, tracing back to the early days of the Meiji era when the Tonden artillery unit first took residence in the area. It was during this time, in a moment of synchronicity, that the village took shape and the shrine found its humble beginnings.

Sorachi Shrine Main Torii

空知神社

Sorachi Shrine grounds in the fall season

Fast forward to the 27th year of Meiji, where the dedication and communal spirit of 160 households from the agricultural cavalry unit, along with volunteers from the urban area, led to the physical construction of the Sorachi Shrine. This act of collective devotion marked the beginning of a new chapter in the shrine's history.

Sorachi Shrine Main Hall

As time progressed, Sorachi Shrine continued to evolve and grow in significance. On September 16th the 34th year of Meiji, it was officially designated as an Ungaku Shrine, signifying its elevated status within the community. This milestone was accompanied by the completion of a new shrine building, a testament to the ongoing dedication to preserving the shrine's legacy.

Sorachi Shrine's chozuya

Sorachi Shrine's chozubachi

Further recognition came on December 28th of the 44th year of Meiji when Sorachi Shrine was honored with the designation of a village shrine. This acknowledgment of its importance within the local landscape paved the way for continued expansion and development.

Monuments inside the Sorachi Shrine grounds

Numagai Reclamation Monument (沼貝開拓記念碑)

Sorachi Shrine's Loyalty Monument

Official Dog Fuso (御用犬扶桑)

Yui no Sacred Tree (結の御神木)

Academic Excellence Monument (勸學誠)

In the 14th year of Taisho, on February 16th, the main shrine building underwent reconstruction, transforming it into a district shrine and solidifying its role as a focal point for spiritual and communal gatherings. This renovation embraced the Shinmei-zukuri architectural style, blending tradition with innovation.

Sorachi Shrine's komainu

Sorachi Shrine's a-gyo

Sorachi Shrine's un-gyo

August 12th of the 8th year of Showa marked another significant milestone for Sorachi Shrine as it was elevated to the esteemed status of a prefectural shrine. This recognition underscored its enduring significance and the profound impact it had on the surrounding region.

Today, the Sorachi Shrine is a beacon of tradition and spirituality, housing revered deities such as Amaterasu Omikami, Onamuchi no Kami, Oyamazuminokami, Haniyasuhime no Kami, Uka no Mitama no Kami, and Sukunahikonakami. With a shrine area spanning 850 square meters, it continues to serve as a sacred space for worship and reflection for over 3,500 households. 

Team Nicerio visits Sorachi Shrine

Last November 3, 2022, my family and I embarked on a "Culture Trip" Road Trip and had the pleasure of visiting Sorachi Shrine for the very first time. This marked my 367th day in Japan as an ALT participating in the JET Programme. It has been a cherished family tradition of ours to visit the main shrine of any city, town, or village we explore for the first time. During our visit, we also made 3 wishes which is also one of the unique traditions that we do whenever we visit a shrine for the first time.

At Sorachi Shrine, we immersed ourselves in the solemn atmosphere, paying our respects and offering prayers as part of our visit.

Sorachi Shrine Fees

It’s FREE to enter and explore Sorachi Shrine’s grounds. However, if you plan to buy omikuji or avail of the goshuin, bring cash.

Sorachi Shrine Operating Hours

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

Why visit Sorachi Shrine?

Overall, visiting Sorachi Shrine in Bibai City offers a holistic journey encompassing history, culture, spirituality, and natural beauty, making it a destination worth exploring for travelers seeking an enriching and meaningful experience. Aside from that, it’s also a must-visit if you collect goshuin.

Getting to Sorachi Shrine

 

Sorachi Shrine is about 10 minutes from JR Bibai Station, about 10 minutes from Chuo Bus Terminal, about 10 minutes from Mitetsu Bus Stop, and about 5 minutes from Municipal Bus Stop.

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