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Hokkaido Shrine
Photo: Wikimedia Commons
poi · JP

Hokkaido Shrine

Getting around: Take the subway Tozai line to Maruyama-koen Station, about 10-15 minutes from Sapporo Station, then a short walk through Maruyama Park.
Hours: Grounds open roughly dawn to dusk, free to enter.

Hokkaido Shrine, founded in 1869 as Sapporo Shrine and renamed in 1964, is the principal Shinto shrine for the island, enshrining deities associated with the development and pioneering of Hokkaido during Japan's push to settle the island in the Meiji era. It sits within Maruyama Park, a large forested park also popular for cherry blossoms and as a green escape close to central Sapporo.

The shrine and surrounding woods offer an easy, quiet contrast to central Sapporo's busier streets, and combining the visit with a walk through Maruyama Park (and its small zoo, if interested) makes for a relaxed half-day.

Hokkaido Shrine FAQs

Why was it renamed from Sapporo Shrine to Hokkaido Shrine?

It was renamed in 1964 to reflect its role as the principal shrine for the entire island of Hokkaido, having originally been established in 1869 during the island's Meiji-era settlement.

Is there an entrance fee?

No, the shrine grounds are free.

Is it near Maruyama Park?

Yes, it sits within the park, which also has a small zoo and is popular for cherry blossoms in spring.

How long does a visit take?

About 30-45 minutes.

How far is it from central Sapporo?

About 10-15 minutes by subway to Maruyama-koen Station, then a short walk.

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