Stacked torii gate at the entrance to Motoshishida Shrine, a branch of Tōbetsu Shinshinji in Sapporo, is said to be from the 17th century. The shrine was originally built in 1851 for Shimizu Yoshimichi, a fisherman who had made his fortune by catching crab during the winter months. This prosperity allowed Shimizu to purchase the land on which the current shrine stands and donate it back to the community in gratitude. His descendants continue to maintain the shrine today.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Aoshigahakamachi-no-kami
- Kami enshrined
- Aoshigahakamachi-no-kami
- Coordinates
- 43.9376678, 143.7150128
Visitor tip
Try some of the local crab dishes, such as crab hot pot or steamed crab served with rice and miso broth, at one of the food stalls near the shrine.
Cultural notes
This shrine is dedicated to a kami named Aoshigahakamachi-no-kami, who is revered for his role in protecting fishermen. The shrine also holds an annual crab festival (, kani-matsuri) in October, where visitors can try traditional foods and participate in games and activities related to fishing.
Historical note
Originally built in 1851 for Shimizu Yoshimichi.