Complete Guide to Kamikawa Shrine | History, Deities, Benefits, and Access Information in Asahikawa, Hokkaido
Kamikawa Shrine, located in Asahikawa City, Hokkaido, is a historic shrine that has been cherished by the local people as the guardian deity of the Kamikawa region since the pioneering days of the Meiji era. It is also nationally known as a power spot for increasing wealth and business prosperity, attracting many visitors every year. This article provides a detailed explanation of everything you need to know before visiting Kamikawa Shrine, including its history, enshrined deities, benefits, highlights of the grounds, annual events, and access methods.
What is Kamikawa Shrine?
Kamikawa Shrine is a shrine located in Kaguraoka Park in Asahikawa City, Hokkaido, and its former shrine rank was Prefectural Shrine. For over 130 years, it has served as a spiritual pillar of the region, acting as the guardian deity of the Kamikawa region’s development and as the general guardian shrine of Asahikawa City. Surrounded by abundant nature, the shrine grounds maintain a tranquil atmosphere despite being in an urban area, and visitors are greeted by beautiful scenery throughout the seasons.
Within the shrine grounds, in addition to the main hall, there is also the Asahikawa Tenmangu Shrine, a subsidiary shrine dedicated to Sugawara no Michizane, the god of learning. Therefore, during exam season, many students and their families can be seen visiting to pray for success.
History of Kamikawa Shrine
Founding and Early Developments
The history of Kamikawa Shrine begins on July 15, 1893 (Meiji 26). As the development of the Kamikawa region intensified, the shrine was founded by enshrining Amaterasu Omikami (the sun goddess) as a guardian deity of the pioneers and as the guardian deity of Asahikawa, on a site called Yoshitsune-dai, spanning from Miyashita-dori 4-chome to 7-chome in Asahikawa City.
At that time, Hokkaido was undergoing development under the Meiji government, and settlers were forging a new land in a harsh natural environment. Kamikawa Shrine was founded as a source of spiritual support for these settlers and as a place to pray for the peace and security of the region.
History of Relocation
After its founding, Kamikawa Shrine has experienced several relocations in line with the development of Asahikawa.
- 1898 (Meiji 31): Relocated to 6th and 7th Street, 8th Block
- 1902 (Meiji 35): Relocated to Miyashita Street, 21st Block
- 1924 (Taisho 13): Relocated to its current location in Kaguraoka
The relocation to the current location in Kaguraoka was due to the expansion of Asahikawa city and the elevation of the shrine’s status. Kaguraoka is a small hilly area blessed with abundant nature and scenic beauty. Since relocating to this site, Kamikawa Shrine has continued to watch over the history of Asahikawa.
Merger and Development
Initially, only Amaterasu Omikami was enshrined, but later, with the development of the region, several other deities were merged into the shrine. From the late Meiji period to the Taisho period, various small shrines and guardian deities worshipped throughout the Kamikawa region were consolidated, establishing its position as the principal guardian shrine of the entire Kamikawa area.
After the war, it restarted as a religious corporation and, as a central presence in the local community, continues to attract the faith of many people to this day.
Deities and Benefits
Deities
The following deities are enshrined at Kamikawa Shrine:
Main Deity:
- Amaterasu Omikami: The supreme deity in Japanese mythology and the ancestral deity of the Imperial family. A deified representation of the sun, revered as the god of agriculture, life, and national peace.
Enshrined Deities:
- Onamuchi no Okami: Another name for Okuninushi no Mikoto. Known as the god of nation-building, matchmaking, and business prosperity.
- Sukunahikona-no-Okami: A deity who, along with Ōkuninushi-no-Ōkami, played a key role in nation-building. He is worshipped as the god of medicine, hot springs, and sake brewing.
Benefits
Kamikawa Shrine is known for its diverse blessings.
- Business Prosperity: Through the divine virtues of Ōkuninushi-no-Ōkami, you can pray for the development of your business and the prosperity of your commerce.
- Increased Financial Fortune: Known nationwide as a power spot, many worshippers visit to pray for increased financial fortune.
- Family Safety: Protects the health and peace of your family.
- Protection from Misfortune and Disaster: Protects you from various calamities.
- Traffic Safety: Prays for safe driving and a safe journey.
- Prayer for Safe Childbirth: Prays for a healthy birth for both mother and child.
- Prayer for Success in Exams: At the Asahikawa Tenmangu Shrine within the grounds, you can pray for academic success and passing exams.
- Healing from Illness: Recovery of health through the divine virtues of Sukunahikona-no-Ōkami.
- Matchmaking: Prays for successful relationships and marital harmony.
Highlights of the Shrine Grounds
Main Shrine and Worship Hall
Nestled amidst the lush green forest of Kaguraoka, the main shrine boasts a majestic structure characteristic of Hokkaido’s shrine architecture. From the plaza in front of the worship hall, a panoramic view of Asahikawa city unfolds. As you ascend the approach to the shrine, you can feel a sacred atmosphere, far removed from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Asahikawa Tenmangu Shrine
Located within the shrine grounds, Asahikawa Tenmangu Shrine enshrines Sugawara no Michizane, the god of learning. During exam season, many students and their parents visit to pray for success, and numerous wishes are hung on the ema (votive tablets). The shrine building, with its striking plum blossom crest, has a different atmosphere from the main shrine.
Approach and Natural Environment
The approach to Kamikawa Shrine is also a popular walking path where you can enjoy the beauty of nature throughout the seasons. Cherry blossoms in spring, fresh greenery in summer, autumn leaves in fall, and snowscapes in winter—each season presents a different face. Because it is adjacent to Kaguraoka Park, you can enjoy a nature walk in conjunction with your visit to the shrine.
Shrine Office and Gift Shop
The shrine office handles various prayer requests, and the gift shop offers amulets and Goshuin (shrine stamps). Kamikawa Shrine offers a wide variety of original amulets, with the amulets for financial luck and business prosperity being particularly popular. Many visitors receive Goshuin as a memento of their visit.
Annual Events and Festivals
Kamikawa Shrine Festival (Grand Festival)
Held annually from July 20th to 22nd, the Kamikawa Shrine Festival is one of Asahikawa’s representative summer festivals. Various Shinto rituals and events take place over three days, with numerous stalls lining the streets, attracting both locals and tourists.
- Yoimiyasai (Evening Festival): A Shinto ritual marking the start of the festival.
- Reitaisai (Grand Festival): The most important Shinto ritual, praying for a bountiful harvest and the prosperity of the region.
- Mikoshi Togyo (Portable Shrine Procession): The portable shrine parades through the city, spreading the divine blessings to the community.
- **Hono Gyō (Offering Ceremonies): Offerings of traditional performing arts and music.
The Kamikawa Shrine Festival is a summer tradition for the citizens of Asahikawa and an important event that strengthens community bonds.
Hatsumode (First Shrine Visit of the New Year)
Known as the most popular Hatsumode spot in Asahikawa. From New Year’s Day to the third day, tens of thousands of worshippers visit to pray for the new year. From New Year’s Eve to New Year’s Day, worship is possible all night, and the shrine is bustling with people welcoming the New Year.
Other Major Festivals
- Saitansai (January 1st): Celebrating the New Year and praying for the prosperity of the Imperial Family and the peace of the nation.
- Setsubunsai (February 3rd): Driving away evil spirits and inviting good fortune through bean-throwing.
- Kinensai (February 17th): A grand spring festival praying for a bountiful harvest.
- Natsugoshi no Oharae (June 30th): Purifying oneself of sins and impurities accumulated over the past six months.
- Niinamesai (November 23rd): Offering new grain to the gods and expressing gratitude for the harvest.
- Toshikoshi no Oharae (December 31st): Purifying oneself of sins and impurities accumulated over the year and preparing to welcome the new year with purity.
About Prayers
Kamikawa Shrine accepts various prayers.
Main Types of Prayers
- Exorcism/Protection from Evil Spirits
- Prayer for Traffic Safety
- Prayer for Family Safety
- Prayer for Business Prosperity
- Prayer for Safe Childbirth
- First Shrine Visit (Omiyamairi)
- Shichi-Go-San Ceremony
- Prayer for Success in Exams/Academic Achievement
- Prayer for Recovery from Illness
- Prayer for Protection from Disaster and Bringing Good Fortune
- Prayer for a Good Relationship
- Groundbreaking Ceremony/Roof-Raising Ceremony
- Purification of the Shrine Altar/House
Prayer Reception
While advance reservations are recommended for prayers, same-day registration is also possible. Please register at the shrine office and pay the prayer fee. After the prayer, you will receive a talisman or amulet. A special prayer experience program is also offered, where you can change into Shinto priest attire and participate in the prayer; this is a popular and valuable experience.
Visiting the Inner Shrine
It is possible to visit the Inner Shrine (the interior of the main hall), which is normally off-limits, by making a reservation in advance. This is a valuable opportunity to experience the beauty of shrine architecture and the sacred space up close, and is popular with many visitors.
Access Information
Location
Address: 2-1 Kaguraoka Park, Asahikawa City, Hokkaido 070-8021
Phone: 0166-65-3151
Access by Public Transportation
From JR Asahikawa Station:
- By Bus: Take the Asahikawa Electric Railway Bus from the Asahikawa Station Bus Terminal
- Get off at the “Kaguraoka Park” bus stop, approximately 5 minutes on foot
- Get off at the “Kagura 3-jo 6-chome” bus stop, approximately 7 minutes on foot
- Travel time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
- By Taxi: Approximately 10 minutes from Asahikawa Station, fare approximately 1,500 yen
Access by Car
- From Asahikawa Station: Approximately 5 km, approximately 10 minutes by car
- From Asahikawa Airport: Approximately 16 km, approximately 30 minutes by car
- Dōō Expressway From Asahikawa Kita Interchange: Approximately 15 minutes
Parking
There is a free parking lot for visitors on the shrine grounds. While there is usually ample parking space, congestion is expected during New Year’s visits and events such as the Kamikawa Shrine Festival, so using public transportation is recommended.
Visiting Hours
- Shrine Grounds: Open all day (including nighttime visits)
- Shrine Office: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (may vary seasonally)
- Amulet and Goshuin (Shrine Seal) Issuance: During shrine office opening hours
Nearby Tourist Attractions
Kaguraoka Park
Kaguraoka Park, adjacent to Kamikawa Shrine, is a popular recreational spot for Asahikawa residents. The vast grounds feature well-maintained walking paths, and in spring, it becomes a popular cherry blossom viewing spot, attracting many visitors. It’s ideal for nature observation and strolling, and a visit in conjunction with a visit to Kamikawa Shrine is highly recommended.
Asahiyama Zoo
Located about 20 minutes by car from Kamikawa Shrine, Asahiyama Zoo is nationally famous as Japan’s northernmost zoo. Known for its “behavioral exhibits” that bring out the animals’ natural behaviors, it attracts many tourists throughout the year.
Asahikawa City Museum
This museum exhibits the history and culture of Asahikawa, as well as materials related to the Ainu people. Learning about the pioneering history of the Kamikawa region will deepen your understanding of the historical background of Kamikawa Shrine.
Asahikawa Ramen Village
A popular spot to enjoy Asahikawa’s famous soy sauce ramen. Eight ramen shops are gathered here, each offering its own unique flavor.
The Power Spot Appeal of Kamikawa Shrine
Kamikawa Shrine is nationally known as a power spot for increasing wealth and business prosperity. This is because it is a special place where the powerful divine virtues of the enshrined deity, Ōkuninushi-no-Ōkami, and the rich natural energy of Kaguraoka combine.
Many visitors have shared stories of positive experiences after praying at Kamikawa Shrine, such as business success, lottery winnings, and promotions. Especially among business owners and self-employed individuals, many visit regularly, and the shrine is trusted as a place to pray for business success.
Furthermore, the pure air and tranquil atmosphere of the shrine grounds are valued as a place to purify the mind and body and gain positive energy. Spending time in the shrine grounds, surrounded by nature and away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, is ideal for refreshing the mind.
Goshuin (Shrine Seals) and Amulets
Goshuin (Shrine Seals)
Kamikawa Shrine offers goshuin as proof of worship. The traditional goshuin, written in ink and stamped with red ink, includes the date of visit and the name “Kamikawa Shrine.” If you bring your goshuincho (seal book), it will be written directly for you. A separate goshuin for the Asahikawa Tenmangu Shrine, a subsidiary shrine within the grounds, is also available.
Amulets
Kamikawa Shrine offers various types of amulets.
- Good Fortune Charm: Popular with worshippers wishing for increased wealth.
- Business Prosperity Charm: For praying for the development of your business.
- Traffic Safety Charm: Various types available, including car charms and wearable charms.
- Exorcism Charm: For those in their unlucky year or seeking protection from misfortune.
- Safe Childbirth Charm: For expectant mothers wishing for a safe delivery.
- Academic Success Charm: For students and those taking exams.
- Matchmaking Charm: For those wishing for a good relationship.
- Health Charm: For praying for recovery from illness and maintaining good health.
Each charm is carefully crafted, and the unique designs of Kamikawa Shrine are also appealing.
Manners and Points for Visiting a Shrine
Basic Worship Etiquette
- Passing Through the Torii Gate: Bow before passing through the torii gate.
- Purifying at the Water Basin: Purify your left hand, right hand, and mouth in that order, and finally wash the handle of the ladle.
- Walking Along the Path: The center of the path is the path for the gods, so walk along the sides.
- Worshiping at the Main Hall: Worship using the two bows, two claps, and one bow ritual.
- Visiting the Shrines Within the Precincts: Don’t forget to visit the shrines within the precincts, such as Asahikawa Tenmangu Shrine.
Best Season for Visiting
Kamikawa Shrine can be visited throughout the four seasons, but each season has its own charm.
- Spring (April-May): A season when cherry blossoms bloom and the fresh greenery is beautiful. The weather is mild, making it ideal for visiting the shrine.
- Summer (July): The Kamikawa Shrine Festival is held, making it the liveliest time of year.
- Autumn (September-October): The autumn leaves are beautiful, and the atmosphere is calm for visiting the shrine.
- Winter (December-March): The snowy landscape is mystical. It is especially crowded during the New Year’s visit.
Clothing and Items to Bring
No special attire is required for visiting the shrine, but clean clothing that reflects the sacred nature of the place is desirable. In winter, be sure to dress warmly. There are stairs on the approach to the shrine, so comfortable walking shoes are recommended. If you wish to receive a Goshuin (shrine stamp), bring a Goshuincho (stamp book). If you plan to purchase amulets, it’s convenient to have some change ready.
Summary
For over 130 years, since the pioneering era of the Meiji period, Kamikawa Shrine has been cherished by the local people as the guardian deity of the Kamikawa region and the general guardian shrine of Asahikawa City. Thanks to the divine blessings of the enshrined deities, including Amaterasu Omikami, the shrine offers a variety of benefits, such as increased wealth, business prosperity, and family safety, attracting visitors from all over Japan as a power spot.
Nestled amidst the rich natural beauty of Kaguraoka, the shrine grounds provide a tranquil space where visitors can enjoy the beautiful scenery of each season. The Kamikawa Shrine Festival, held every July, is a representative summer festival of Asahikawa, bustling with many citizens and tourists.
When you visit Asahikawa, we highly recommend visiting Kamikawa Shrine and offering a quiet prayer while reflecting on the history of Hokkaido’s development. The time spent in the shrine grounds, surrounded by abundant nature and a sacred atmosphere, will surely be a memorable experience.
