The 駒舞稲荷神社, located in 新ひだか町, Hokkaido, is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the kami of dance and rice. According to local legend, the shrine was built to appease the kami of fertility and abundance, who were said to have been pleased by the local people's reverence for traditional dances performed during the summer solstice. The shrine is notable for its unique architectural style, which blends traditional Japanese designs with elements of Ainu culture, reflecting Hokkaido's rich cultural heritage.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Tsukuyomi
- Kami enshrined
- Tsukuyomi, Hachiman
- Coordinates
- 42.2267567, 142.6186776
Visitor tip
To fully experience the shrine's unique cultural significance, visitors are encouraged to participate in the traditional summer solstice dance performed on the first day of the festival, which involves intricate footwork and energetic movements.
Cultural notes
The shrine is closely associated with the Ainu people's traditional dance, known as 'masarai,' which is still performed today. The shrine is also said to be connected to the mythological figure of the 'Tsundere-bi,' a kami believed to possess the power to influence the fertility of rice fields.
Historical note
The shrine was built in 1915 during the Meiji period, after a devastating earthquake hit the region.