Toyohira Shrine Complete Guide | History, Goshuin (Shrine Seal), Annual Festival, and Access Information for Toyohira-ku, Sapporo City
About Toyohira Shrine
Toyohira Shrine is a venerable shrine with over 140 years of history, located at 1-18, Toyohira 4-jo 13-chome, Toyohira-ku, Sapporo City, Hokkaido. Formerly a village shrine, it is deeply revered by local residents as the guardian deity of the Toyohira area.
Located at 4-jo 13-chome, Toyohira-ku, Sapporo City, it boasts a convenient location, approximately a 6-minute walk (460m) from Toyohira Park Station. The shrine grounds cover approximately 1,500 tsubo (approximately 5,000 square meters), and the Shinto-style shrine building stands quietly amidst a residential area. Currently, it has approximately 5,000 parishioners and 30,000 worshippers, making it one of the most important shrines in Sapporo City.
History and Origins of Toyohira Shrine
Circumstances of its Founding
The history of Toyohira Shrine dates back to 1871 (Meiji 4). The Toyohira area was a region with many immigrants from the Tohoku region, particularly Aomori Prefecture. It is said that the settlers, including Jintaro Abe, who settled in Toyohira Village by order of the Hokkaido Development Commission, began by enshrining the deity of Saruga Shrine in Aomori, their hometown, in a small shrine built east of the current main shrine.
At the time of settlement, the Toyohira area was covered in forest, and a large amount of timber was cut down every year. In this environment, the settlers found solace in enshrining the guardian deity of their hometown, finding solace in the harsh life of pioneering Hokkaido.
Changes in the Shrine Building
Initially, it was a simple shrine, but it was gradually improved throughout the Meiji era. Later, Oyamatsumi-no-kami and Uganomitama-no-mikoto were enshrined together, and the shrine came to be worshipped as the tutelary deity of Toyohira Ward.
The current shrine building is constructed in the Shinmei-zukuri style and boasts a floor area of 60 tsubo (approximately 200 square meters). Shinmei-zukuri is an ancient Japanese architectural style, exemplified by Ise Grand Shrine, and exudes a simple yet solemn atmosphere.
Along with the Development of the Toyohira Area
From 1918 (Taisho 7) to 1969 (Showa 44), the Jozankei Railway operated, connecting Sapporo city center with Jozankei Onsen, known as “Sapporo’s inner sanctuary.” This railway was established to transport timber cut from the Jozankei area, ore from the Toyoha Mine, and visitors to Jozankei Onsen, greatly contributing to the development of the Toyohira area. Toyohira Shrine is a witness to this history, having watched over the development of the region.
About the Deities Enshrined
Toyohira Shrine enshrines three deities.
Kamitsukenotamichi-no-Mikoto
Kamitsukenotamichi-no-Mikoto, the principal deity, was invited from Saruga Shrine in Aomori. Jintaro Abe enshrined this deity, the guardian deity of his hometown, in the area where he settled, and it is revered as the central deity of Toyohira Shrine. This deity was a source of spiritual support for the pioneers and watches over the peace and development of the region.
Oyamatsumi-no-Kami
Oyamatsumi-no-Kami, known as the god of mountains, came to be worshipped because the Toyohira area was covered in forests at the time of settlement, and a large amount of timber was cut down every year. This deity symbolizes safety in forestry and mountain work, and gratitude for the blessings of nature. Even today, it attracts worshippers who wish for coexistence with nature.
Uganomitama-no-Mikoto
Uganomitama-no-Mikoto, widely known as Inari-sama, is the god of abundant harvests and business prosperity. He was enshrined here to pray for agricultural success in the newly developed areas and for the economic prosperity of the region. Even today, many worshippers visit to pray for success in business and ventures.
Highlights of the Shrine Grounds
Main Hall and Worship Hall
The Shinto shrine buildings, built in the Shinmei-zukuri style, present a simple yet dignified appearance. The sight of the shrines standing amidst the snowy landscape is particularly unique to Hokkaido and captivates many worshippers. The shrines are regularly maintained, and despite their more than 140 years of history, they remain clean and beautiful.
Needle Mound and Needle Memorial Poetry Monument
Within the shrine grounds are a needle mound and a needle memorial poetry monument, dedicated to expressing gratitude for sewing needles and praying for improvement in sewing skills. The monument bears a poem by Oda Kankei, a representative poet of Hokkaido, making it a historical site of high cultural value. Every year, a needle memorial service is held, attracting people involved in sewing.
Historical Sites Related to the Jozankei Railway
Within the grounds of Toyohira Shrine, there are historical sites related to the Jozankei Railway, which once connected Sapporo and Jozankei. This site, which preserves the memory of the railway that operated from 1918 to 1969, is attracting attention from history enthusiasts.
Annual Festival and Regular Events
Annual Festival (July 15th)
The most important festival at Toyohira Shrine is the annual festival held on July 15th. On this day, parishioners and worshippers gather, making it the busiest day of the year at the shrine. Traditional festival rituals, such as the portable shrine procession and offering ceremonies, are held, providing an important opportunity to deepen the bonds of the local community.
Flower Pilgrimage
In recent years, a new event called “Flower Pilgrimage” has also been held. Scheduled for its 9th year in 2026 (Reiwa 8), this popular event adorns the shrine grounds with seasonal flowers, providing a healing space for visitors.
Year-End and New Year Events
Many visitors come to the shrine during the year-end and New Year period. The first shrine visit of the year (Hatsumode) is bustling with people praying for safety and prosperity in the new year, and amulet sets and zodiac-themed items are distributed. 2026 (Reiwa 8) is the Year of the Horse, and special zodiac-themed items are planned.
Please check the official announcement as reception hours may differ from usual.
About Goshuin (Shrine Seals) and Goshuincho (Shrine Seal Books)
Goshuin Reception
Goshuin are available at Toyohira Shrine year-round. Reception hours are from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM, and are handled at the shrine office. Popular among those visiting shrines in Hokkaido and those who collect goshuin as a hobby, the carefully written goshuin are cherished as mementos of their visit.
Original Goshuincho (Stamp Book)
Toyohira Shrine offers original design goshuincho (stamp books). The designs reflect the history and characteristics of the shrine, making them popular as souvenirs of your visit. Please inquire at the shrine office for details.
Kami-Tama Pilgrimage
There is an initiative called “Kami-Tama Pilgrimage” in Sapporo, which involves visiting several shrines within the city. Toyohira Shrine is one of the participating shrines. It is believed that visiting all seven shrines brings special blessings, and the number of visitors coming as part of a Sapporo shrine pilgrimage is increasing.
Items Offered and Amulets
Various Amulets
Toyohira Shrine offers amulets for various wishes, including traffic safety, family safety, academic success, and business prosperity. A variety of unique amulets are available, each based on the divine virtues of the enshrined deity.
Divine Talisman Set
During the New Year period, a divine talisman set for welcoming the new year is offered. This set includes amulets for household shrines and various other charms, and is popular among parishioners and devotees.
Zodiac Items
Every year, items related to the year’s zodiac animal are prepared. Reiwa 8 (2026) is the Year of the Horse, and special zodiac items are planned to be offered. These are popular as lucky charms for the New Year.
Revision of Offering Fees
The offering fees for the items were revised on October 15, Reiwa 7 (2025). Please check the official shrine information or inquire at the shrine office for details.
Visiting and Prayers
Visiting Hours
Toyohira Shrine is generally open to visitors, but the shrine office is open from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM. Those wishing to receive a Goshuin (shrine stamp) or request prayers are advised to visit during these hours.
Types of Prayers
Toyohira Shrine accepts various types of prayers. Prayers can be offered for various life milestones and wishes, such as the first shrine visit for a newborn, Shichi-Go-San (a traditional rite of passage for children), protection from evil, traffic safety, family safety, business prosperity, and success in exams. We recommend making a reservation in advance by phone (011-811-1049).
Family Worship
The shrine also provides guidance on how to properly worship at home and the proper etiquette for daily prayers. You can consult with the shrine office about the basic principles of Shinto and methods of worship that can be practiced at home.
Access Information
Location
Address: 1-18, Toyohira 4-jo 13-chome, Toyohira-ku, Sapporo City, Hokkaido
Access by Public Transportation
By Subway:
- Approximately 6 minutes on foot (460m) from Toyohira Park Station on the Sapporo Municipal Subway Toho Line
- Toyohira Park Station is accessible from Sapporo Station in about 10 minutes
By Bus:
- Get off at the Toyohira 4-jo 12-chome bus stop (Chuo Bus), approximately 2 minutes on foot
- Buses from the Toyohira Bus Depot area are also available
Access by Car
The shrine is easily accessible from National Route 36. Please refer to the surrounding map and aim for Toyohira 4-jo 13-chome. There is parking space for visitors on the shrine grounds, but congestion is expected during events such as the annual festival, so we recommend using public transportation.
Surrounding Environment
Toyohira Shrine is located in a residential area, but it is close to Toyohira Park and the Toyohira River, and is blessed with a natural environment. We recommend strolling around the surrounding area before or after your visit. It’s relatively close to Nakajima Park, making it easy to combine a visit with sightseeing in Sapporo.
Announcements & Latest Information
Toyohira Shrine regularly provides various information, including annual events such as the Grand Festival and Flower Pilgrimage, information on available items, and changes to reception hours.
Main Schedule for 2026
- 9th Flower Pilgrimage: Scheduled for April 13, 2026
- Year-End and New Year’s Reception Hours: Special guidance available
- Amulet Sets, Zodiac (Horse) Items: Available from the end of the year
Toyohira Shrine 140th Anniversary Commemorative Projects
As we enter the Reiwa era, Toyohira Shrine has a history of over 140 years. Various projects are planned to commemorate this, providing an opportunity to reaffirm its role as a shrine rooted in the community.
How to Check Information
The latest information can be found on the official website of Toyohira Shrine and the Hokkaido Shrine Association website. You can also contact the shrine office directly by phone (011-811-1049).
Contact Information
Phone Number: 011-811-1049
FAX Number: 011-814-4524
Reception Hours: 09:00～16:30
For reservations for prayers, inquiries about events, or any other questions, please feel free to contact us at the above phone number. We will provide courteous assistance.
The Charm of Toyohira Shrine
A Local Guardian Deity
The greatest charm of Toyohira Shrine lies in its history of walking alongside the people of the Toyohira area for over 140 years. From the pioneering era to the present day, it has attracted the faith of many people as a guardian deity of the region and a spiritual anchor.
The figures of approximately 5,000 parishioners and 30,000 worshippers speak to the importance of the shrine to the local community.
Beauty in the Seasons
One of the charms of Toyohira Shrine is that you can experience the four seasons of Hokkaido. It shows a different face each season: fresh greenery in spring, lush trees in summer, autumn leaves in fall, and snowscapes in winter. The shrine grounds, especially when covered in snow in winter, are enveloped in a tranquil and sacred atmosphere, captivating many visitors.
Easy Access
Located at 4-13 Toyohira, Toyohira-ku, Sapporo, it is very easily accessible by public transport, just a 6-minute walk from Toyohira Park Subway Station. It can be easily visited as part of sightseeing in Sapporo or as a regular place of worship.
Cultural Value
The shrine grounds contain historical and culturally valuable relics, such as the Needle Mound, the Needle Memorial Song Monument, and historical sites related to the Jozankei Railway. These are valuable materials that convey the history of the Toyohira area and are carefully preserved as regional cultural heritage. ## Summary
Toyohira Shrine is a venerable shrine with over 140 years of history, located at 1-18, Toyohira 4-jo 13-chome, Toyohira-ku, Sapporo City, Hokkaido. It enshrines three deities: Kamitsukeno Tamichi-no-Mikoto, Oyamatsumi-no-Kami, and Ukanomitama-no-Mikoto, and is deeply revered by local residents as the guardian deity of the Toyohira area.
Conveniently located about a 6-minute walk from Toyohira Park Subway Station, the shrine caters to a variety of visitor needs, including annual events such as the Grand Festival (July 15th), the issuance of Goshuin (shrine stamps), and various prayers. The shrine grounds also contain historical sites related to the Jozankei Railway, such as the Needle Mound, creating a space where one can feel history and culture.
Reception hours are 09:00 to 16:30, and the telephone number is 011-811-1049. If you are planning to visit a shrine in Sapporo, are collecting Goshuin, or are interested in local history, please visit Toyohira Shrine. Nestled in a quiet residential area, the shrine offers a peaceful moment of worship, a precious respite from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
