Hokkaido Shrine: From Worshiping the Gods of Development to Honoring Emperor Meiji

Hokkaido Shrine serves as a microcosm of Hokkaido's pioneering history. After the Meiji Restoration, the Japanese government abolished the Edo period's rule that only allowed the Matsumae Domain to interact with Hokkaido. They incorporated Hokkaido into their territory, initiating the era of development by sending numerous officials and citizens to the region. This also marked the beginning of efforts to assimilate the Ainu people and develop this cold land. Against this backdrop, in 1869, Emperor Meiji issued a decree to establish Hokkaido Shrine as a spiritual support for the people heading to develop the region. The shrine primarily enshrines three gods of development: Ōkuninushi, Ōkunitama, and Sukunahikona. Whether by coincidence or divine intervention, Hokkaido gradually flourished, and the shrine's popularity grew alongside it. After Emperor Meiji's passing, Emperor Shōwa ordered the addition of Emperor Meiji to the enshrined deities in 1964. Within the shrine grounds, a Pioneer Shrine was also built to honor figures like Matsumae Takahiro, the first lord of the Matsumae Domain, and Takeaki Enomoto, known as the father of Hokkaido's development. In essence, under Shinto beliefs, this shrine commemorates and protects those who contributed to Hokkaido's development, earning its reputation as the guardian of Hokkaido. Today, locals visit Hokkaido Shrine for New Year celebrations, weddings, and other significant life events, showcasing the enduring power of religion. 📍Address: 474 Miyagaoka, Chuo Ward, Sapporo, Hokkaido 064-0959, Japan 🚗 Access: Take the subway to Maruyama Park Station and walk for 15 minutes.