Located in the heart of Hokkaido, East Shrine is a sacred site that honors the kami of the region's natural environment and its people's prosperity. The shrine's architecture reflects its history as an important stopping point along the routes used by the Ainu people, who first worshipped here before Japanese colonizers arrived. Today, visitors can experience the serene beauty of the shrine's gardens and forests, which are said to be inhabited by various spirits and ancestral deities.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- null
- Kami enshrined
- null
- Coordinates
- 43.2233958, 141.7885769
Visitor tip
When visiting East Shrine during autumn, try some of the local specialty foods, such as Hokkaido's famous sweet potatoes or crab dishes, at one of the food stalls near the shrine entrance.
Cultural notes
The shrine is closely connected to the mythology surrounding the Ainu people's relationship with nature. Visitors can also observe traditional dances and festivals, such as the annual Autumn Equinox Festival, which take place on the main grounds.
Historical note
The shrine was originally built in 1724 as a small torii gate, but it has since undergone many restorations and expansions over the centuries.