Hokkaido Jingu Shrine
北海道神宮
Hokkaido's chief guardian shrine, founded in 1869 at the foot of Mount Maruyama's primeval forest. Plum and cherry blossoms bloom together in spring, and it is Sapporo's top choice for New Year's shrine visits.
Hokkaido Jingu was founded in 1869. It enshrines the three gods of pioneering and Emperor Meiji, and it is the largest shrine in Hokkaido. Ancient trees tower over the grounds, which connect to Maruyama Park and the Maruyama primeval forest, making a walk here very serene. Squirrels are often seen. In early May, about 1,000 cherry and plum trees on the grounds bloom almost at the same time, making it one of Sapporo's famous cherry blossom spots. The grilled rice cake Hangan-sama, sold at the Jingu Chaya teahouse on the grounds, is a local specialty. Worship is free. Open about 6:00 AM to 5:00 PM (7:00 AM to 4:00 PM in winter). Getting there: about 15 minutes' walk from Maruyama-koen Station on the Tozai Line subway.
Opening hours
Approx. 06:00–17:00 (shorter in winter)
Nearby sights
- Sapporo Maruyama Zoo
- Asahiyama Memorial Park
- Sapporo Curb Market
- Okurayama Ski Jump Stadium
- Mount Moiwa
- Hokkaido University Botanic Garden
- Hokkaido University
- Odori Park