Kamikawa Shrine (Asahikawa City, Hokkaido) Complete Guide | History, Benefits, Access, and Goshuin Information
Kamikawa Shrine, located within Kaguraoka Park in Asahikawa City, Hokkaido, is a historic shrine founded in the Meiji era as the guardian deity of the Kamikawa region’s development. Known as a power spot for business prosperity and increased wealth, it attracts many visitors every year. This article comprehensively introduces information you should know before visiting Kamikawa Shrine, including its history, benefits, highlights of the grounds, goshuin (shrine stamps), annual events, and access methods.
History and Origins of Kamikawa Shrine
Founding and Meiji Era Development
The history of Kamikawa Shrine dates back to July 15, 1893 (Meiji 26). The Kamikawa Shrine was founded as the guardian deity of the Kamikawa region’s development and the tutelary shrine of Asahikawa. A temporary shrine was erected on a hill called Yoshitsune-dai, the planned site of the city at the time, and Amaterasu Omikami was enshrined there.
During the Meiji era, the development of Hokkaido was a nationally important project. While the Kamikawa region was blessed with abundant nature, the development was fraught with difficulties. Amidst these challenges, the Kamikawa Shrine was founded as a spiritual haven for the pioneers and a place to pray for the success of the development project.
Relocation and Development to Kaguraoka
On June 6, 1924 (Taisho 13), the Kamikawa Shrine was relocated to its current site in Kaguraoka. Kaguraoka is a small hill overlooking Asahikawa city, surrounded by lush greenery. This relocation gave the Kamikawa Shrine its current magnificent appearance.
On July 1, 1955 (Showa 30), Kamikawa Shrine was designated a Special Shrine by the Association of Shinto Shrines, recognizing it as one of Hokkaido’s leading shrines. A Special Shrine is a historically significant shrine designated by the Association of Shinto Shrines, demonstrating the high status of Kamikawa Shrine.
Enshrinement of Iwamura Michitoshi and Centennial Celebration
In 1992 (Heisei 4), Iwamura Michitoshi, who made significant contributions to the development of the Kamikawa region, was enshrined at the shrine. Iwamura Michitoshi is known as a key figure in the development of Hokkaido and greatly contributed to the development of the Kamikawa region.
The following year, in July 1993 (Heisei 5), a grand centennial celebration was held. With a history of over 100 years, Kamikawa Shrine continues to attract the faith of many people, including the citizens of Asahikawa, to this day.
Deities and Blessings
Main Deity: Amaterasu Omikami
The main deity of Kamikawa Shrine is Amaterasu Omikami. Amaterasu Omikami is the supreme deity in Japanese mythology, known as the personification of the sun. She is the ancestral deity of the Imperial Family and revered as the tutelary deity of all Japanese people.
As the goddess of the sun, the source of life, Amaterasu Omikami bestows blessings upon all life. Therefore, she is believed to bring a wide range of blessings, including good fortune, family safety, and abundant harvests.
Enshrined Deities: Iwamura Michitoshi and Pioneers of Hokkaido Development
To the right of the altar are enshrined Iwamura Michitoshi, a key figure in the development of Hokkaido, and other pioneers of Hokkaido development. Iwamura Michitoshi was a bureaucrat during the Meiji era and served as the Governor of Hokkaido, dedicating himself to the development of Hokkaido. He was deeply involved in the development of the Kamikawa region and is still revered today as the person who laid the foundation for Asahikawa.
Benefits of Kamikawa Shrine
Kamikawa Shrine is believed to offer the following benefits:
- Business Prosperity: Popular among business owners and entrepreneurs seeking business development and prosperity.
- Increased Financial Fortune: Many visitors come to pray for improved financial luck.
- Good Fortune and Prosperity: Improved luck in all aspects of life.
- Family Safety: Health and peaceful living for family members.
- Traffic Safety: Prayers for safe driving and accident-free driving.
- Exorcism: Protection from misfortune during unlucky years.
- Prayer for Success in Exams: Success in entrance exams and qualification tests.
- Prayer for Safe Childbirth: Health and safe delivery for mother and child.
- Recovery from Illness: Recovery from illness and maintenance of health.
It is particularly famous as a power spot for business prosperity and increased financial fortune, and is said to be visited by celebrities and business owners.
Highlights of the Shrine Grounds
The Majestic Appearance of the Shrine
Kamikawa Shrine’s main hall is located on a hill in Kaguraoka, offering a superb location overlooking the city of Asahikawa. As you ascend the approach to the shrine, a magnificent worship hall appears before you, its majestic atmosphere inspiring a sense of awe.
The shrine is built in the traditional style of Shinto shrine architecture, with beautifully crafted carvings and decorations that delight the eyes of visitors.
Asahikawa Tenmangu Shrine
Within the grounds of Kamikawa Shrine lies Asahikawa Tenmangu Shrine. Tenmangu shrines are dedicated to Sugawara no Michizane, the god of learning, and are visited by many students and those taking exams, praying for success in their studies and academic achievements.
Asahikawa Tenmangu Shrine is a beloved center of learning worship in the region. It is especially crowded with visitors during exam season.
The Seasonal Nature of Kaguraoka Park
Kaguraoka Park, where Kamikawa Shrine is located, is a beautiful park where you can enjoy the nature of each season.
In spring, cherry blossoms bloom in profusion, attracting many visitors. The cherry blossoms blooming in the shrine grounds and along the approach to the shrine make it a popular spot where you can enjoy both worship and cherry blossom viewing.
In summer, the greenery deepens, and hydrangeas bloom beautifully. The shrine grounds, where a refreshing breeze blows, are pleasant even in the hot summer.
In autumn, the autumn leaves turn magnificent colors, dyeing the entire shrine grounds in red and yellow. The solemn atmosphere of the shrine combined with the beauty of the autumn leaves captivates visitors.
In winter, a snowy landscape spreads, allowing you to experience a sacred atmosphere enveloped in silence. The shrine buildings covered in snow, unique to Hokkaido, are well worth seeing.
Attractions as a Scenic Spot
Located on a hill in Kaguraoka, Kamikawa Shrine offers panoramic views of Asahikawa city. Especially on clear days, the scenery is breathtaking, stretching to the distant mountains. Enjoying the view from the shrine grounds after your prayers is one of the pleasures of visiting Kamikawa Shrine.
Goshuin (Shrine Seal) and Amulets
Kamikawa Shrine’s Goshuin (Shrine Seal)
At Kamikawa Shrine, you can receive a goshuin as a memento of your visit. A goshuin is a sacred item featuring the shrine’s crest and name written in ink and stamped with a red seal.
Goshuin can be obtained at the shrine office. You can bring your own goshuincho (seal book) or purchase one on-site. Kamikawa Shrine also offers original goshuincho, which are recommended as souvenirs.
Popular Amulets and Souvenirs
Kamikawa Shrine offers a variety of amulets and souvenirs:
- Business Prosperity Amulet: Popular with business owners wishing for business development
- Financial Fortune Amulet: For those wishing for increased wealth
- Traffic Safety Amulet: For safe driving of cars and bicycles
- Academic Success Amulet: Popular with students and those taking exams
- Safe Childbirth Amulet: For the health of pregnant women and babies
- Exorcism Amulet: For warding off evil spirits in one’s unlucky year
- Health Amulet: For recovery from illness and maintaining good health
You can choose an amulet according to the blessings you desire. They also make wonderful gifts for loved ones.
Kamikawa Shrine Festival (Annual Grand Festival)
Asahikawa’s Representative Summer Festival
The Kamikawa Shrine Festival is the annual grand festival of Kamikawa Shrine, held every year from July 20th to 22nd. As Asahikawa’s representative summer festival, it attracts many visitors from both within and outside the city.
Officially known as the “Harvest Prayer Festival,” this festival prays for a bountiful harvest and the prosperity of the region. A traditional festival continuing since its founding in the Meiji era, it has become a summer tradition in Asahikawa.
Festival Highlights
During the Kamikawa Shrine Festival, various events take place within the shrine grounds and in Asahikawa city:
Portable Shrine Procession: A magnificent portable shrine parades through the city, attracting many bearers and spectators. The impressive sight of the portable shrine is breathtaking.
Stalls: Numerous stalls line the shrine grounds and surrounding areas, adding to the festive atmosphere. Enjoy classic street food such as takoyaki, yakisoba, and candied apples.
Offering Ceremonies: Traditional performing arts such as Kagura and Taiko drumming are offered, allowing visitors to experience traditional Japanese culture.
How to Participate and Enjoy
The Kamikawa Shrine Festival is a festival open to everyone. There are many ways to enjoy it, from visiting the shrine to watching the portable shrine procession and enjoying the food stalls.
The festival is very crowded, so it’s recommended to visit with plenty of time to spare. Also, since it’s during the hot summer months, don’t forget to take precautions against heatstroke.
Prayers and Etiquette
Types of Prayers and How to Apply
At Kamikawa Shrine, you can receive various types of prayers:
- Exorcism
- Prayer for Traffic Safety
- Prayer for Family Safety
- Prayer for Business Prosperity
- Prayer for Safe Childbirth
- Prayer for Success in Exams
- Prayer for Recovery from Illness
- Prayer for Protection from Disaster
- Shichi-Go-San Ceremony
- First Shrine Visit for a Newborn
- Groundbreaking Ceremony
- Ridgepole Raising Ceremony
If you wish to receive a prayer, you can apply at the shrine office. Reservations can also be made by phone in advance (Tel: 0166-65-3151).
Etiquette for Visiting a Shrine
There are basic etiquette rules for visiting a shrine. When visiting Kamikawa Shrine, please observe the following etiquette:
- Bow before passing through the torii gate: As a greeting before entering the sacred area, bow before the torii gate.
- Purify yourself at the water basin: Purify your hands and mouth at the water basin. Purify your left hand, then your right hand, then your mouth, and finally wash the handle of the ladle.
- Walk along the edge of the path: The center of the path is considered the path of the gods, so walk along the edge.
- Worship at the main hall: The basic procedure is two bows, two claps, and one bow.
- Bow deeply twice
- Clap your hands twice at chest height
- Silently recite your wish
- Bow deeply once
- Bow upon leaving: When leaving, turn back in front of the torii gate, bow once, and then depart.
Access Information
Basic Information
Address: Kaguraoka Park, Asahikawa City, Hokkaido 078-8327
Phone: 0166-65-3151
Visiting Hours: Grounds are open freely (Shrine office is usually open from 9:00 to 17:00)
Closed Days: None (Open all year round)
Parking: Available (Free)
Access by Train
From JR Asahikawa Station: Approximately 4km
Using a bus or taxi from Asahikawa Station is convenient.
From Furano Line “Kaguraoka Station”: Approximately 1.5km
Approximately 20 minutes on foot from Kaguraoka Station.
Access by Bus
Take the Dohoku Bus from Asahikawa Station bus stop:
- Route 82 Minami-ko (via Kamikawa Shrine) Midorigaoka Line: Get off at the “Kamikawa Shrine” bus stop.
- Route 83 Research Park Line: Get off at the “Kamikawa Shrine” bus stop.
The journey takes approximately 10-15 minutes. Bus service is limited, so it is recommended to check the timetable in advance.
Access by Car
From Asahikawa Station: Approximately 5 minutes (approximately 4km)
From Asahikawa Airport: Approximately 30 minutes (approximately 20km)
There is free parking at the shrine, making it convenient to visit by car. However, congestion is expected on days with events such as the Kamikawa Shrine Festival, so consider using public transportation.
Car Navigation Settings: You can search using “Kamikawa Shrine” or the address “Kaguraoka Park, Asahikawa City.”
Access by Taxi
A taxi from Asahikawa Station takes approximately 5 minutes and costs around 1,000 to 1,500 yen. Taxis are convenient if you are visiting with multiple people or have a lot of luggage.
Nearby Tourist Attractions
Asahiyama Zoo
Asahiyama Zoo, located about 20 minutes by car from Kamikawa Shrine, is famous as Japan’s northernmost zoo. Its unique “behavioral exhibit” method allows visitors to see the animals in a lively manner, attracting many tourists from both Japan and abroad.
Asahikawa Ramen Village
This facility allows you to enjoy Asahikawa’s famous soy sauce ramen. Located about 10 minutes by car from Kamikawa Shrine, it features several ramen restaurants. Recommended for lunch after visiting the shrine.
Snow Museum
A beautiful museum themed around snow, offering a fantastical atmosphere. Located about a 10-minute drive from Kamikawa Shrine, this spot is particularly popular with women.
Kaguraoka Park
Kaguraoka Park, where Kamikawa Shrine is located, is also a recommended spot for a stroll. You can enjoy the changing seasons and spend your time leisurely.
Points to Note and Manners When Visiting
Regarding Attire
If you are receiving a prayer, it is best to wear attire that is not too casual. There are no specific dress code requirements for regular visits, but please be mindful of the sacred nature of the place and dress accordingly.
Regarding Photography
Photography is generally permitted within the shrine grounds, but please refrain from taking pictures inside the main hall or during Shinto rituals. Also, please be considerate of other visitors.
Regarding Pets
Rules regarding pets vary from shrine to shrine. When visiting Kamikawa Shrine, please check in advance or consider having your pet wait in the car.
Visiting in Winter
In Hokkaido winters, there is snowfall, making the approach to the shrine slippery. If you are visiting during the winter, please wear non-slip shoes and be very careful of your footing.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the address of Kamikawa Shrine?
It is located within Kaguraoka Park, Asahikawa City, Hokkaido 078-8327. The phone number is 0166-65-3151.
What are the opening hours of Kamikawa Shrine?
While you can visit the shrine grounds 24 hours a day, the shrine office (where goshuin stamps and amulets are issued) is usually open from 9:00 to 17:00. If you wish to have a prayer ceremony, it is recommended to confirm by phone in advance.
What are the regular closing days of Kamikawa Shrine?
There are no regular closing days; you can visit year-round. However, it is expected to be crowded during the New Year holidays and the annual festival period.
Can I get a goshuin stamp?
You can get a goshuin stamp at the shrine office. You can bring your own Goshuincho (stamp book) or purchase one on-site.
Is there parking?
There is free parking. However, it gets crowded on days with events such as the Kamikawa Shrine Festival, so we recommend arriving early.
Is a reservation necessary for prayers?
While same-day registration is possible, it gets particularly crowded during Shichi-Go-San (children’s festival) and New Year’s visits, so we recommend making a reservation by phone in advance (0166-65-3151).
How crowded is it during New Year’s visits?
The first three days of the year are very crowded with many visitors. The morning of New Year’s Day is especially busy, so please allow ample time for your visit. If you want to avoid the crowds, we recommend visiting early in the morning, in the evening, or after the first three days of the year.
Can I have a wedding ceremony here?
Kamikawa Shrine can perform Shinto wedding ceremonies. Please contact the shrine office directly for details.
Summary
Kamikawa Shrine, located in Asahikawa City, Hokkaido, is a historic shrine that has been revered by the people of the Kamikawa region since its founding in the Meiji era. It enshrines Amaterasu Omikami as its main deity and is known as a power spot for business prosperity and increased wealth.
From its grounds, situated on a hill in Kaguraoka, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Asahikawa city and appreciate the changing seasons. The Kamikawa Shrine Festival, held every July, is a popular summer festival representing Asahikawa, attracting many visitors.
It’s easily accessible, about 10 minutes by bus or 5 minutes by car from Asahikawa Station, and has free parking. When sightseeing in Asahikawa, be sure to visit Kamikawa Shrine and reflect on the history of Hokkaido’s development while offering a peaceful prayer.
A wide variety of goshuin (shrine stamps) and amulets are available, making them a great memento of your visit. Let Kamikawa Shrine be a place to cleanse your mind and body and inspire you to face each day with a renewed spirit.
