Located in the heart of Shikotsu-Toya National Park, Niseko's Okurayama Hontonni Shrine is a serene Shinto sanctuary dedicated to the Shinto kami of Mount Ontake. The shrine's tranquil atmosphere and breathtaking views of Mt. Ontake make it an ideal destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts alike. Visitors can experience the rich cultural heritage of Hokkaido by participating in traditional rituals and ceremonies, such as the summer solstice festival, and indulge in local specialties like crab hot pot and rice wine.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Hontonni
- Kami enshrined
- Inari, Hachiman, Benten
- Coordinates
- 42.7404431, 140.3034569
Visitor tip
For visitors interested in hiking, consider ascending Okurayama's peak during the summer solstice for a unique opportunity to witness the sun rising over Mt. Ontake.
Cultural notes
Okurayama Hontonni Shrine is deeply connected to the Shinto tradition of mountain worship, with Mount Ontake being considered one of Japan's most sacred mountains. The shrine's architecture and rituals reflect this reverence for nature, featuring traditional wooden torii gates and shrines dedicated to various kami, including Inari, Hachiman, and the sea god, Benten.
Historical note
The shrine was built in 1792 during the Edo period to commemorate a miraculous event in which Mount Ontake was said to have appeared at sea before a fishing vessel to guide it safely ashore.