Itsukushima Shrine (Monbetsu City, Hokkaido) Complete Guide | From Goshuin (Shrine Seals) and Access to History and Visiting Information
Itsukushima Shrine, located in the city center of Monbetsu City, Hokkaido, is a historic shrine that has been cherished by the local people since the Meiji era’s pioneering period. It enshrines the deity of Itsukushima Shrine, also known as Miyajima Shrine in Hiroshima, and has been revered as the guardian deity of the Kitami region’s development. This article provides detailed information useful for visiting Itsukushima Shrine, including its history, enshrined deity, goshuin (shrine seals), access methods, and annual events.
Itsukushima Shrine, located in the city center of Monbetsu City, Hokkaido, is a historic shrine that has been cherished by the local people since the Meiji era’s pioneering period. ## Basic Information on Itsukushima Shrine (Monbetsu City)
Official Name: Itsukushima Shrine
Location: 1-6-4 Hanazono-cho, Monbetsu City, Hokkaido
Postal Code: 〒094-0015
Deity Enshrined: Ichikishima-hime no Mikoto
Shrine Rank: Former Village Shrine
Founded: Meiji 9 (1876)
Telephone Number: Please contact the Monbetsu City Tourism Association or the shrine office directly.
Located in Hanazono-cho, the heart of Monbetsu City, it is also known as “Monbetsu Itsukushima Shrine” by local residents. Its location in the city center makes it easily accessible, attracting many visitors for New Year’s prayers and other religious services.
History and Origins of Itsukushima Shrine
History of Founding and Development in the Meiji Period
Itsukushima Shrine was founded in Meiji 9 (1876). The shrine’s origins trace back to Denbei Murayama, a fishing grounds contractor in the Monbetsu region at the time, who invited Ichikishimahime-no-Mikoto from Itsukushima Shrine in Hiroshima Prefecture and founded the shrine. During the Meiji era, when Hokkaido’s development was in full swing, the Monbetsu region thrived primarily on fishing and forestry. The shrine was established to pray for maritime safety and regional prosperity.
Changes in Shrine Rank
Itsukushima Shrine has undergone the following changes in shrine rank since its founding:
- 1897 (Meiji 30): Recognized as an unranked shrine
- 1918 (Taisho 7): Promoted to a village shrine
- 1928 (Showa 3): Promoted to a regional shrine
- 1946 (Showa 21): Established as a religious corporation
The rapid promotion from an unranked shrine to a regional shrine in such a short period suggests the rapid development of the Monbetsu region and the deep faith of the local residents. Known as the “Shrine of Kitami’s Development,” it was also called the “National Spirit Shrine of Kitami.”
Visit by Emperor Showa
Itsukushima Shrine is known as a historically significant shrine, having been visited twice by Emperor Showa. This is a remarkable historical fact among shrines in Hokkaido, and speaks to its deep connection with the Imperial Family.
About the Enshrined Deity
Ichikishima-hime no Mikoto
The principal deity of Itsukushima Shrine is Ichikishima-hime no Mikoto. Ichikishima-hime no Mikoto is one of the three goddesses (Munakata Three Goddesses) born from the oath (ukei) between Amaterasu Omikami and Susanoo-no-Mikoto, and is also known as the principal deity of Itsukushima Shrine in Hiroshima Prefecture.
Divine Blessings:
- Maritime Safety and Protection of Navigation
- Traffic Safety
- Business Prosperity
- Improvement in Performing Arts
- Wealth and Good Fortune
- Matchmaking and Successful Relationships
Ichikishimahime-no-Mikoto is revered as the goddess of water and the sea, and is also identified with Benzaiten, making her a deity of performing arts and wealth.
Seven Deities
According to some sources, Itsukushima Shrine enshrines seven deities, including Ichikishimahime-no-Mikoto. This is thought to include deities from other shrines that have been enshrined together, as well as local guardian deities.
Goshuin (Shrine Seal) Information
About the Issuance of Goshuin
Itsukushima Shrine offers goshuin. Goshuin are popular among many visitors as proof of worship and as a record of their connection with the shrine.
Goshuin (Shrine Seal) Issuance Hours: During shrine office hours (prior confirmation recommended)
Offering Fee: Generally around 300-500 yen
Goshuincho (Shrine Seal Book): You can have your goshuin stamped in the goshuincho you bring with you.
Manners for Receiving a Goshuin
Since a goshuin is proof of your visit, be sure to complete your prayers before requesting one at the shrine office. It is polite to open your goshuincho, prepare the page for the stamp, and have the offering fee ready to avoid needing change.
Highlights of the Shrine Grounds
Shrine Building
The shrine building of Itsukushima Shrine is constructed to suit the climate of Hokkaido. Despite being located in the city, it maintains a tranquil atmosphere and warmly welcomes visitors.
Torii Gate and Approach
Passing through the torii gate, which blends seamlessly into the residential area of Hanazono-cho, you can feel the entrance to a sacred place. Despite being located in the city center, stepping onto the shrine grounds reveals a sacred atmosphere distinct from everyday life.
Atmosphere of the Shrine Grounds
The compact yet well-maintained grounds reflect the care and dedication of the local community. Each season presents a different face, and visiting amidst the winter snowscape offers a unique Hokkaido experience.
Annual Events and Festivals
New Year’s Visit
At the start of the new year, many citizens visit to pray for family safety, business prosperity, success in exams, and protection from evil. It is a major New Year’s visit spot in Monbetsu City, cherished by the local community.
Annual Grand Festival
Itsukushima Shrine holds its annual grand festival once a year. This important festival prays for the prosperity of the region and the well-being of its parishioners, and sometimes includes a portable shrine procession and offering ceremonies.
Other Festivals
- Spring Festival
- Autumn Festival
- Monthly Festival
We recommend checking the specific dates in advance.
About Prayers and Sorrows
Itsukushima Shrine accepts various prayers and blessings.
Main Prayers Offered:
- Family Safety
- Business Prosperity
- Traffic Safety
- Protection from Evil Spirits
- Success in Examinations
- Safe Childbirth
- First Shrine Visit (Omiyamairi)
- Shichi-Go-San Ceremony
- Matchmaking
If you wish to request a prayer, we recommend contacting the shrine office in advance to confirm the date, time, and offering fee.
Access Information
Location
Address: 1-6-4 Hanazono-cho, Monbetsu City, Hokkaido
Latitude/Longitude: 44.355086, 143.351554
Access by Public Transportation
By Bus:
- Approximately 3 minutes on foot from the Hokumon Bus “Hyomon no Eki” bus stop
- Approximately 10-15 minutes on foot from Monbetsu Bus Terminal
Located in the center of Monbetsu City, it is accessible by city bus.
Access by Car
From Monbetsu City Center:
- Approximately 5 minutes by car from the city center
- Accessible via National Route 238
From Okhotsk Monbetsu Airport:
- Approximately 20 minutes by car (approx. 15 km)
From Asahikawa Area:
- Approximately 2 hours 30 minutes via National Route 273 and National Route 238
Parking
There is parking space on the temple grounds or nearby, but it is recommended to check details on-site or inquire in advance. During busy periods such as New Year’s, please consider using public transportation.
Nearby Tourist Attractions
Here are some tourist attractions in Monbetsu City that you might want to visit along with your visit to Itsukushima Shrine.
Okhotsk Tokkari Center
The only seal-specialized facility in Japan. You can observe various types of seals up close, and see their adorable appearance during feeding times.
Okhotsk Tower Ice Sea Observation Tower
A globally rare facility where you can observe drift ice and the ecosystem of the Okhotsk Sea from underwater. In winter, you can see the drift ice from beneath the sea.
Garinko-go
A famous sightseeing ship known as an icebreaker. In winter, you can experience the thrill of breaking through drift ice.
Monbetsu City Museum
A museum where you can learn about the history, nature, and culture of Monbetsu. You can learn about Okhotsk culture and the history of settlement.
Manners and Etiquette for Visiting Shrines
Basic Etiquette for Visiting Shrines
- Bow Before Passing Through the Torii Gate
As a sign of respect before entering the sacred area, bow before the torii gate.
- Walk Along the Edge of the Path
The center of the path is considered the path of the gods, so walk along the edge.
- Purifying at the Water Basin
If there is a water basin, purify your left hand, then your right hand, and then your mouth.
- Worship at the Main Hall
The basic ritual is two bows, two claps, and one bow.
- Bow deeply twice
- Clap your hands twice
- Pray sincerely
- Bow deeply once
- Bow Upon Exit
After leaving the torii gate, turn around and bow once.
Attire for Worship
Everyday clothes are acceptable, but please dress neatly. If you are receiving a prayer, slightly more formal attire is preferable.
About Monbetsu City
Monbetsu City, where Itsukushima Shrine is located, is a city in northeastern Hokkaido facing the Sea of Okhotsk.
Characteristics of Monbetsu City
- Population: Approximately 20,000 (as of 2024)
- Climate: A cold region where drift ice reaches the shore in winter
- Major Industries: Fishing, seafood processing, tourism
- Specialty Products: Seafood such as hairy crab, scallops, and salmon
The City of Drift Ice
Monbetsu City is known as the “City of Drift Ice,” and drift ice reaches the Okhotsk Sea coast every year from late January to early March. Drift ice tourism is popular during this period, attracting many tourists from all over Japan.
How to Enjoy Visiting Itsukushima Shrine
Seasonal Expressions
Spring: Spring arrives in the north with the melting snow. A beautiful season of fresh greenery.
Summer: Monbetsu enjoys its short summer. A pleasant climate for visiting the shrine.
Autumn: A season of beautiful autumn foliage. It gets lively during the autumn festival season.
Winter: The shrine grounds, covered in snow, are magical. Visiting during the drift ice season is also recommended.
As part of a Goshuin (shrine stamp) pilgrimage
For those collecting Goshuin in Hokkaido, Itsukushima Shrine is worth visiting as it represents Monbetsu City. It’s also a good idea to visit it along with other shrines in the Okhotsk region.
Experiencing local history
Itsukushima Shrine has walked hand in hand with the community from the Meiji era’s development to the present day. Through your visit, you can experience the history of Hokkaido’s development and local culture.
Points to note when visiting
Visiting in winter
Monbetsu City is an area with heavy snowfall in winter. If you are visiting in winter, please note the following:
- Wear non-slip shoes
- Dress warmly
- Be careful of icy roads
- Visit during daylight hours as the sun sets early
Shrine Office Hours
If you wish to receive a Goshuin (shrine stamp) or prayers, we recommend checking the shrine office hours in advance. Especially outside of winter and festival periods, hours may be limited.
Itsukushima Shrine and the Local Community
Itsukushima Shrine is not merely a tourist spot; it functions as a center of faith for local residents. It is a place cherished across generations, visited at important life events such as New Year’s visits, Shichi-Go-San (a traditional rite of passage for children), and exorcisms.
In local festivals and events, parishioners and residents cooperate to support the shrine, and these community ties are still carefully preserved.
Summary
Itsukushima Shrine in Monbetsu City, Hokkaido, is a historic shrine that has attracted the faith of local people for over 140 years since its founding in 1876 (Meiji 9). This shrine enshrines Ichikishimahime-no-Mikoto as its main deity and is known for its diverse blessings, including maritime safety, business prosperity, and matchmaking.
Despite being located in the city center, the shrine grounds maintain a tranquil atmosphere, offering peace to visitors. Goshuin (shrine stamps) are also available, making it a recommended spot for those touring shrines in Hokkaido.
When visiting Monbetsu City, in addition to enjoying drift ice sightseeing and the bounty of the Okhotsk Sea, why not visit Itsukushima Shrine and experience the history of Kitami’s development and the local faith? This historic shrine, which was also visited by Emperor Showa, offers a time for quiet prayer that will deepen your travel memories.
