Yubari Shrine, located in Hokkaido, is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the god of fertility and prosperity, Enokoshita-hikoboshi. The shrine is famous for its beautiful cherry blossom trees, which bloom in late April and attract many visitors. According to local legend, Enokoshita-hikoboshi was a kami who fell in love with a mortal woman and was ultimately killed by her husband. In an attempt to reunite the star-crossed lovers, the kami is said to travel between the world of the living and the afterlife every year on July 7th, bringing good fortune and prosperity to those who worship at the shrine.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Enokoshita-hikoboshi
- Kami enshrined
- Enokoshita-hikoboshi
- Coordinates
- 43.0645704, 141.9815721
Visitor tip
To make the most of your visit, be sure to try some of the local specialties, such as Yubari King melons or Yubari strawberries, which are said to have been blessed by Enokoshita-hikoboshi himself.
Cultural notes
Yubari Shrine is known for its unique festival tradition, where visitors wear traditional costumes and participate in a ritual dance called 'Odori', which is believed to bring good luck and fertility. The shrine also features a beautiful garden with several torii gates, each representing a different aspect of nature.
Historical note
The shrine was built in 1859 as a humble torii gate, but it has since expanded to become one of the largest and most impressive shrines in Hokkaido.