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Hokkaido Shrine Tongu: A Convenient Sanctuary in Sapporo

A peaceful Shinto shrine in central Sapporo, Hokkaido Shrine Tongu offers blessings, history, and a tranquil escape for locals and tourists alike.

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Hokkaido Shrine Tongu, established in 1878, serves as an auxiliary shrine to Hokkaido Shrine, providing a more accessible place of worship in central Sapporo, especially during the harsh winter months. Known affectionately as 'Tongu-san' by locals, it offers a tranquil escape from the city bustle.

A brief summary to Hokkaido Shrine Tongu

  • Minami 2 Johigashi, 3 Chome−10−10-26, Sapporo, 3 Chome Minami 2 Johigashi, Chuo Ward, Hokkaido, 060-0052, JP
  • +8111-221-1084
  • Visit website
  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Visit during the Sapporo Festival in June to witness the vibrant Mikoshi procession.
  • Touch the Komainu (guardian dogs) at the entrance for blessings related to love, childbirth, and family safety.
  • Check out the weeping cherry trees, which bloom later than other cherry trees, if you missed the main cherry blossom season.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The closest subway station to Hokkaido Shrine Tongu is Bus Center-mae Station on the Tozai Line. From the station, take Exit 6 and walk south for one block (approximately 2 minutes). Sapporo subways operate using a prepaid card system (SAPICA or Kitaca) or single-journey tickets. A single subway fare within the central Sapporo area typically costs around ¥210 for adults. Alternatively, consider a 'Donichika Ticket' (¥520) for unlimited subway travel on weekends and public holidays.

  • Walking

    Hokkaido Shrine Tongu is located within easy walking distance of several central Sapporo attractions. From Nijo Market or Sapporo TV Tower, it's approximately a 10-15 minute walk. From Tanukikoji Shopping Arcade or Odori Park, it's about a 5-minute walk. Simply head east towards the Sosei River, and you'll find the shrine on the east side of the river, a block away from the main road.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Sapporo. A short taxi ride from Sapporo Station to Hokkaido Shrine Tongu (approximately 2km) will typically cost between ¥800 and ¥1200, depending on traffic conditions. Note that fares may increase during late-night hours.

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Discover more about Hokkaido Shrine Tongu

Hokkaido Shrine Tongu, nestled in the heart of Sapporo, offers a serene and accessible spiritual retreat. Established in 1878 as an auxiliary to the main Hokkaido Shrine (formerly Sapporo Shrine) in Maruyama Park, Tongu was created to provide a convenient place for locals to worship, particularly during Sapporo's snowy winters. Located a short walk from the Bus Center-mae subway station, Tongu provides a peaceful atmosphere with greenery surrounding the shrine grounds and the Sosei River flowing nearby. Though smaller than its counterpart in Maruyama Park, Hokkaido Shrine Tongu is a popular destination throughout the year, with cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant foliage in the fall. Throughout the year, Hokkaido Jingu Tongu holds various events and festivals. The shrine is known for blessings related to love, childbirth, and family safety. The guardian dogs (Komainu) at the entrance are believed to bring good luck, especially the older set made of Sapporo soft stone, which are the oldest in the Ishikari region and thought to bless children and ensure safe delivery. The shrine also plays a role in the annual Sapporo Festival, serving as a resting point for the portable shrine (Mikoshi).

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