Complete Guide to Onakayama Shrine | The Charm and Access Information of a Historic Shrine in Nanae Town, Hokkaido
Onakayama Shrine, located in Nanae Town, Kameda District, Hokkaido, is one of Hokkaido’s oldest shrines, founded in 1576 (Tensho 4). Its convenient location, close to Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto Station and about a 5-minute walk from JR Onakayama Station, makes it a popular pilgrimage spot for Hokkaido Shinkansen users. This article provides a detailed overview of Onakayama Shrine, including its history, enshrined deities, access methods, and annual events.
History and Origins of Onakayama Shrine
Circumstances of Founding and the Invitation of Mishima Shrine
The founding of Onakayama Shrine dates back to 1576 (Tensho 4). At that time, the region was divided into Okawa Village and Nakajima Village. Approximately 400 years prior, the ancestors of Sugimoto Eihachi had migrated to Okawa Village from the Nanbu region (present-day Aomori and Iwate Prefectures). As the number of Japanese settlers increased, the villagers discussed the establishment of a shrine as a spiritual center, and it began with the enshrinement of the Mishima Shrine.
According to the “Kenko-roku” (Record of Inspections), the former site of the Mishima Daimyojin shrine was located near Nichoyama, and by 1710 (Hoei 7), it was already functioning as the center of local faith. Among the shrines in Hokkaido, it is a valuable example of a shrine founded by settlers from Honshu, preserving the history of Japanese settlement.
Merger of Okawa Village and Nakajima Village
The place name Onakayama is a combination of “O” from Okawa Village and “Naka” from Nakajima Village. The current Onakayama Shrine was formed by the merger of the Mishima Shrine, the guardian shrine of Okawa, and the Inari Shrine, the guardian shrine of Nakajima. This merger symbolized the process of the two villages developing together and played a role in strengthening the bonds of the local community.
In the history of Nanae Town, the Onakayama area has long been one of the centers of settlement, and the history of regional development, centered on agriculture, is closely intertwined with the history of the shrine.
Deity and Divine Virtues
Oyamatsumi-no-Mikoto
The principal deity of Onakayama Shrine is Oyamatsumi-no-Mikoto. Known as the god of mountains and the sea, Oyamatsumi-no-Mikoto is an important deity in Japanese mythology, appearing in the Kojiki and Nihon Shoki. He is particularly deeply connected to mountain worship and is believed to bestow divine virtues related to agriculture, fishing, safe voyages, and family safety.
In Hokkaido, a land rich in nature, faith in Oyamatsumi-no-Mikoto, who presides over the blessings of the mountains and the sea, became a source of spiritual support for the settlers. The area around Nanae Town is surrounded by mountains, including Mount Komagatake, and the worship of Oyamatsumi-no-Mikoto aligns with the geographical characteristics of the region.
Uganomitama-no-Mikoto
The other enshrined deity is Uganomitama-no-Mikoto. Widely known as Inari-no-Mikoto, Uganomitama-no-Mikoto is revered as the god of abundant harvests, business prosperity, and industrial development. This deity was inherited from the Inari shrine that was the guardian shrine of Nakajima Village, and has watched over the development of the region based on agriculture.
The two enshrined deities, Oyamatsumi-no-Mikoto and Uganomitama-no-Mikoto, symbolize two essential elements of people’s lives: the blessings of the mountains and the bounty of the fields. They have continued to attract the faith of local residents from the pioneering era to the present day.
Konohanasakuya-hime-no-Mikoto
Some documents also list Konohanasakuya-hime-no-Mikoto as an enshrined deity. Konohanasakuya-hime-no-Mikoto is the daughter of Oyamatsumi-no-Mikoto and a beautiful goddess also known as the goddess of Mount Fuji. This shrine is revered for its divine blessings related to safe childbirth, child-rearing, and protection from fire, and attracts fervent devotion from female worshippers.
Access and Location
Access from JR Ōnakayama Station
Ōnakayama Shrine is conveniently located about a 5-minute walk from Ōnakayama Station on the JR Hakodate Main Line. Upon exiting the station and heading towards National Route 5, the torii gate stands prominently along the road, making it easy to find even for first-time visitors.
The walking route is flat and takes approximately 5 to 8 minutes. While it may appear slightly set back from the road on a map, the torii gate actually faces the national highway, making it easily visible and recognizable.
Access from Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto Station
Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto Station on the Hokkaido Shinkansen is also relatively close, about a 10-minute drive or a 5-minute ride on the JR conventional line. It’s possible to visit during Shinkansen waiting times or transfer times, making it an easily accessible shrine for tourists visiting Hokkaido.
The area around Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto Station has seen significant development in recent years, and even with a rental car, access is easy via National Route 5.
Access by Bus
The shrine is located approximately 2 minutes on foot from the “Jinja Bus Stop” and approximately 8 minutes on foot from the “Oonakayama Bus Stop” on the Hakodate Bus line. These bus stops are convenient landmarks when using the bus from Hakodate city or Nanae town. The Jinja Bus Stop, in particular, is very easy to spot as it bears the shrine’s name.
Access by Car and Parking
By car, the shrine is located along National Route 5, making it easily accessible from both Hakodate city and Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto Station. While there is parking available for visitors, it can get crowded during events such as the annual festival, so consider using public transportation.
The address is 2-5 Oonakayama, Nanae-cho, Kameda-gun, Hokkaido. Searching for “Oonakayama Shrine” on your car navigation system or smartphone map app will display the exact location.
Highlights of the Shrine Grounds
Torii Gate and Approach
The torii gate, standing along National Route 5, is an important landmark indicating the presence of Oonakayama Shrine. Passing through the gate, a quiet approach leads to the main shrine. The approach is well-maintained, creating a pleasant space where visitors can enjoy the changing seasons while praying.
As is typical of shrines in Hokkaido, you can enjoy a fantastical snow-covered landscape in winter, fresh greenery in spring, and vibrant autumn leaves, each offering a different view depending on the season.
Main Shrine and Worship Hall
The main shrine is built in the traditional shrine architectural style, boasting a robust structure capable of withstanding Hokkaido’s harsh climate. In the worship hall, you can quietly offer your prayers and gratitude to the enshrined deity.
The shrine grounds are meticulously clean, reflecting the care and dedication of the local community. When visiting, please observe proper shrine etiquette and pray quietly and sincerely.
Shrine Office and Amulets
At the shrine office, you can receive amulets and other items such as Goshuin (stamped seals). However, it is not always open, so if you wish to receive a Goshuin, it is recommended that you check the opening hours in advance.
The shrine has a warm atmosphere unique to a shrine deeply rooted in the community, and interaction with the chief priest and parishioners is one of the charms of Oonakayama Shrine.
Annual Events and the Grand Festival
Grand Festival (September 5th)
The most important annual event at Oonakayama Shrine is the Grand Festival, held every year on September 5th. The Grand Festival is the most important festival of the year for the shrine, where gratitude is offered to the enshrined deity and prayers are made for peace and prosperity in the community.
During the Grand Festival, there are events such as a portable shrine procession and dedication ceremonies, and local residents come together to liven up the festival. In recent years, a parade featuring the “Harvest Drum” has also been held, making it a lively festival that blends tradition and modernity.
First Shrine Visit of the New Year
Many worshippers visit the shrine for their first shrine visit of the new year. Despite Hokkaido’s harsh winter, the shrine grounds are bustling with people praying for safety and happiness throughout the year. The first three days of the new year are particularly busy, making it a local New Year’s tradition.
Other Annual Events
Traditional shrine rituals, such as the spring Kinensai (harvest festival) and the autumn Niinamesai (harvest festival), are also held. These events are deeply intertwined with Japanese agricultural culture and are important ceremonies praying for a bountiful harvest and peace in the community.
The Relationship Between Nanae Town and Onakayama Shrine
Center of the Local Community
Since its founding, Onakayama Shrine has functioned as the spiritual center of the Onakayama district in Nanae Town. During the harsh life of the pioneering era, the shrine served as a source of comfort and a place that strengthened community bonds.
Even today, it continues to be the local guardian deity, closely intertwined with the lives of the residents. From life-changing rituals such as the first shrine visit for a newborn, Shichi-Go-San (a traditional rite of passage for children), and exorcism, to everyday visits, the shrine attracts the faith of the local community.
History and Development of Nanae Town
Nanae Town is one of the earliest areas in Hokkaido to be developed. Due to its geographical proximity to Hakodate, many immigrants from Honshu settled there. The history of Oonakayama Shrine is essentially the history of Nanae Town’s development itself.
Founded in 1576 (Tensho 4), it is one of the oldest shrines in Hokkaido and provides valuable evidence of the history of full-scale settlement by Japanese people.
Manners and Etiquette for Visiting a Shrine
Basic Etiquette for Visiting a Shrine
When visiting a shrine, please observe the following basic etiquette:
- Bow before entering the grounds after bowing in front of the torii gate.
- Avoid walking in the center of the path (the center is considered the path of the gods).
- Purify your body and mind at the temizuya (water basin).
- At the haiden (main hall), pray using the “two bows, two claps, one bow” method.
- When leaving, turn around and bow after passing through the torii gate.
Etiquette for Purifying at the Temizuya
The etiquette for purifying at the temizuya is as follows:
- Take the ladle with your right hand and purify your left hand.
- Switch the ladle to your left hand and purify your right hand.
- Take the ladle again with your right hand, receive water in your left hand, and rinse your mouth.
- Purify your left hand once more.
- Stand the ladle upright, let the water flow down the handle, and return it to its original place.
Considerations Unique to Hokkaido Shrines
When visiting during winter, be aware that the ground may be slippery. Also, if there is snow, walking along the path may take longer, so plan your visit with plenty of time to spare.
Nearby Tourist Attractions
Tourist Attractions in Nanae Town
When visiting Onakayama Shrine, consider exploring other tourist attractions in Nanae Town. Known as the “gateway to Hokkaido,” Nanae Town is a charming town where history and nature harmonize.
At the “Nanairo Nanae” roadside station, you can purchase fresh local produce and specialty products, and there are many spots where you can enjoy views of Mount Hakodate and Mount Komagatake.
Access to the Hakodate Area
Nanae Town is adjacent to Hakodate City, providing excellent access to Hakodate’s tourist attractions. It’s an ideal base for visiting representative Hokkaido tourist spots such as Hakodate Morning Market, Goryokaku, and Mount Hakodate.
Including a visit to Onakayama Shrine as part of your Hakodate sightseeing will allow you to enjoy a more fulfilling Hokkaido trip. ## Relationship with the Hokkaido Association of Shinto Shrines
Oonakayama Shrine is one of the shrines belonging to the Hokkaido Association of Shinto Shrines. The Hokkaido Association of Shinto Shrines is an organization that oversees shrines throughout Hokkaido, supporting shrine maintenance, priest training, and the execution of Shinto rituals.
The Hokkaido Association of Shinto Shrines’ website contains information on shrines throughout Hokkaido, including Oonakayama Shrine, and can be used as reference material when visiting shrines. It provides a wealth of information for understanding shrine culture, including the basics of Shinto rituals, annual events, and information on Gagaku (ancient Japanese court music).
Planning a Visit to Onakayama Shrine
Recommended Time to Visit
Onakayama Shrine is open year-round, but the following times are particularly recommended:
- Spring (April-June): Beautiful fresh greenery and pleasant weather
- Autumn (September-October): The time of the annual festival, and you can enjoy the autumn foliage
- New Year’s Visit (January 1st-3rd): Bustling with people praying for the new year
While it’s possible to visit during winter (December-March) amidst the snowy Hokkaido scenery, be sure to take precautions against the cold and ensure your footing is safe.
Estimated Time Required
A visit to Onakayama Shrine, including strolling around the grounds, should take approximately 30 minutes to 1 hour. If you plan to receive a Goshuin (shrine stamp) or take your time exploring the grounds, allow more time.
If accessing the shrine on foot from JR Onakayama Station, 1.5 hours including round-trip travel time should be sufficient to fully enjoy your visit. ### Attire for Visiting the Shrine
While there are no specific dress code requirements for visiting a shrine, it is advisable to dress appropriately for a sacred place. Casual attire is acceptable, but avoid overly informal clothing.
Choosing clothing appropriate for Hokkaido’s climate is also important. Even in summer, mornings and evenings can be chilly, and winters are bitterly cold, so please dress appropriately for the season.
Summary
Oonakayama Shrine, founded in 1576, is one of Hokkaido’s oldest shrines and is deeply rooted in the community as the spiritual center of Nanae Town. It enshrines Oyamatsumi-no-Mikoto and Ukanomitama-no-Mikoto as its deities, and has attracted the faith of people from the pioneering era to the present day, thanks to its divine blessings of mountain bounty and abundant harvests.
Located in a convenient location, approximately a 5-minute walk from JR Oonakayama Station and close to Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto Station, it is easily accessible for tourists using the Hokkaido Shinkansen. Located along National Route 5, the shrine’s torii gate makes it easy to find, even for first-time visitors.
Annual events, including the grand festival on September 5th, are important local events, preserving tradition while incorporating modern elements such as the Harvest Drum Parade.
Oonakayama Shrine, closely linked to the pioneering history of Nanae Town, is a valuable resource for understanding Hokkaido’s history. When visiting Hakodate, be sure to extend your trip and pay your respects. The tranquil grounds offer a peaceful retreat and a valuable experience of connecting with Hokkaido’s history and culture.
