Hokkaidô Jingû is the premier shrine to the island, and was founded by Emperor Meiji in 1869 following his ascention. The shrine was built to offer spiritual assistance to the pioneers working through the forests. The shrine is home to “the Three Pioneer Deities” and was positioned in the area of Maruyama because of the three mountains that surrounded it. Later under Emperor Showa, the venerated spirit of Emperor Meiji was enshrined in Hokkaidô Jingû making it one of only a few shrines in Japan to be home to four different deities.

For the casual: 7. For the educated: 6.

Hokkaidô Jingû, as mentioned above, is the premier shrine to the area, and is the most important shrine in Hokkaido. It’s a beautiful shrine, deserving of the title Jingû, and it sits within a wonderful public park perfect for picnics, parties, and other pleasantries. Ok, I won’t lie, I definitely noticed that alliteration and decided to go with it. I really do believe that the shrine and the larger Maruyama park are a wonderful place to spend a sunny afternoon, just be careful of the crafty ravens looking for some mischief. After visiting the shrine or enjoying the park, Maruyama Zoo is just up the street.