Located in the heart of Sapporo, Hokkaido's largest city, Ogimachi Gassho Tomi no Minkaen's nearby Otaru region is home to Kita no Daimyo Shrine, dedicated to the god of the north, as well as a shrine dedicated to the Kami of the river and mountain. While not directly related, both shrines share historical roots with the Hokkaido region. The shrine in question, Hagurojinja, has origins dating back to 1853, originally serving as a Buddhist temple before its conversion to Shintoism.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Amaterasu Omikami
- Kami enshrined
- Amaterasu Omikami, Shinmei
- Coordinates
- 44.115076, 144.0084974
Visitor tip
Visit at dawn or dusk for the most serene atmosphere; bring snacks to enjoy by the nearby river as you explore the shrine grounds.
Cultural notes
This shrine is known for its unique architectural style, reflecting the influences of Japanese and indigenous Ainu traditions. The main hall features a distinctive cedar beam roof and is adorned with intricately carved wooden ornaments, typical of Hokkaido's regional Shinto heritage.
Historical note
Originally built in 1608, it was converted into a Shinto shrine in 1939 after the Meiji period's policy of removing Buddhist temples and converting them into Shinto shrines.