ABOUT
About this spot
Hokkaido Shrine is a shrine in Chuo Ward, Sapporo, next to Maruyama Park. It enshrines three deities of development, Okunitama-no-Kami, Onamuchi-no-Kami and Sukunahikona-no-Kami, together with Emperor Meiji. Its grounds cover about 180,000 square meters, and although it is in the city it is surrounded by trees. The shrine began in 1869 (Meiji 2), when Emperor Meiji issued an edict to enshrine the deities that protect the development of Hokkaido. In 1871 the spirit of the deities was enshrined at the present site on Maruyama and the shrine was named Sapporo Shrine, and in 1899 it was ranked as a Kanpei Taisha. In 1964 Emperor Meiji was added and the shrine was renamed Hokkaido Shrine. The main hall and other buildings burned down in an arson attack in 1974 and were rebuilt in 1978. It is also a Beppyo Jinja of the Association of Shinto Shrines. The grounds include Kaitaku Shrine, which enshrines 37 people who contributed to the development of Hokkaido. Wild Ezo squirrels can sometimes be seen along the approach, which makes the walk through this forest in the city enjoyable. In spring about 1,400 cherry trees and about 250 plum trees bloom in the grounds, and many people come during this season together with the blossom viewing in Maruyama Park. Parking is expected to be crowded during New Year's visits from January 1 to 7, the blossom season and the Sapporo Festival, so public transport is recommended. The annual festival known as the Sapporo Festival is held from June 14 to 16. The 14th is the eve festival and the 15th is the main ceremony. On the 16th a portable-shrine procession sets out, with four portable shrines and nine floats accompanied by more than 1,000 citizens walking through the streets of Sapporo. The festival has a history of more than 100 years and is dear to local people. Opening hours vary with the season: 6:00 to 17:00 from April to October, 7:00 to 17:00 in March, and 7:00 to 16:00 from November to February (different around the New Year). It is open every day, and entry and worship are free. A visit takes about 30 minutes, but allow 1 to 2 hours if you also stroll through Maruyama Park. The free car park holds 230 cars. Nearby, Maruyama Zoo in a corner of Maruyama Park is popular with families. Heading toward Sapporo Station, you can reach the former Hokkaido Government Office (the Red Brick Building) and the Sapporo TV Tower, so the history and cityscape of Sapporo can be covered in a day.
Last updated October 22, 2026