Located in the heart of Sapporo, Abenobashi Obonmachi's Bensui-tei Shrine is a revered Shinto shrine dedicated to Benzaiten, the deity of beauty, music, and poetry. The shrine's architecture reflects the style typical of Hokkaido's Shinto shrines, with a simple yet elegant design that blends seamlessly into its surroundings. Over time, the shrine has played host to numerous festivals and events, including the annual Benzaiten Festival, which celebrates the deity's association with music, dance, and poetry.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Benzaiten
- Kami enshrined
- Benzaiten, Kasumigaura no kamizuchi, Ōkuninushi, Tsukuyomi, Hachiman
- Coordinates
- 41.5535864, 140.9116624
Visitor tip
To fully appreciate the shrine's tranquil atmosphere, visit at dawn or dusk when the surrounding streets are still quiet, and take a moment to admire the beautiful Benzaiten statue located beneath the main torii gate.
Cultural notes
Benzaiten is revered for her association with the arts, music, and poetry. As such, visitors may notice that the shrine's grounds feature beautifully crafted stone lanterns adorned with intricate designs typical of Japanese garden art. Additionally, during special festivals, attendees are encouraged to participate in traditional dances and performances that celebrate Benzaiten's role as a patron deity for artists and creatives.
Historical note
Founded in 1869 during the late Edo period, Bensui-tei Shrine was built to commemorate the construction of the Sapporo Railway.