Located in the picturesque town of Akan, Hokkaido's largest caldera lake region, 上札内神社 is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the worship of the forest spirit, Karibetsu-hime. Dedicated to protecting the local environment and ensuring the bounty of nature, the shrine is a popular destination for those seeking spiritual connection with the natural world.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Karibetsu-hime
- Kami enshrined
- Karibetsu-hime
- Coordinates
- 42.6338999, 143.0911544
Visitor tip
Visit the shrine's beautiful gardens at sunset to witness the vibrant display of cherry blossoms in spring or the stunning autumn foliage.
Cultural notes
In addition to its connection with Karibetsu-hime, the shrine is also associated with the legend of a samurai who perished in the caldera and was subsequently enshrined as a protector of the local community.
Historical note
Built in 1882, the current shrine was constructed during the Meiji period, marking a shift towards modernization and Western influence in Shinto architecture.