Complete Guide to Sapporo Soreijinja Shrine | A Historic Shrine with a Five-Pointed Star Emblem and a History of Hokkaido’s Development
Located in the Susukino district of Sapporo’s Chuo Ward, Sapporo Soreijinja Shrine is a historic shrine founded in 1871 (Meiji 4) that tells the story of Hokkaido’s development. Its emblem is the same “five-pointed star (red star emblem)” as Sapporo Beer, and it was built at the suggestion of Kiyotaka Kuroda, Vice Minister of the Hokkaido Development Commission, for the purpose of worshipping the ancestors of Shinto believers. This article provides a detailed explanation of Sapporo Soreijinja Shrine’s history, enshrined deities, goshuin (shrine seal), visiting information, and its deep connection to Hokkaido’s development.
History and Origin of Sapporo Soreijinja Shrine
Background of Founding: During the Hokkaido Development Commission Era (1871)
The founding of Sapporo Soreijinja Shrine dates back to the dawn of Hokkaido’s development. In 1871 (Meiji 4), Kiyotaka Kuroda, then Vice Minister of the Hokkaido Development Commission, and others erected a shrine at the entrance of the Akebono Public Cemetery (near present-day Minami 5-jo Nishi, Chuo-ku, Sapporo) for the ancestral worship of Shinto believers.
At that time, the development of Hokkaido was promoted as an important policy of the Meiji government, and many settlers migrated from Honshu. For those who practiced Shinto, there was a need for a place to enshrine the spirits of their ancestors, and Kiyotaka Kuroda encouraged the construction of the shrine that would become the Sapporo Ancestral Spirit Shrine in response to this need.
Development in the Meiji Era: Relationship with Sapporo Shrine
In 1877 (Meiji 10), Yoshinori Wakabayashi, a Shinto priest of Sapporo Shrine (present-day Hokkaido Shrine), became the first chief priest. This established a deep relationship between the Sapporo Ancestral Spirit Shrine and Sapporo Shrine.
1885 (Meiji 18) marked a significant turning point for the Sapporo Ancestral Spirit Shrine. In this year, a divided spirit of the deity was enshrined from Sapporo Shrine, and the main hall of the Ancestral Spirit Shrine was completed. At this time, it also came to be known by the alternative name “Shinonome Hokora” (東雲祠). The name Shinonome Hokora, meaning “dawn light,” is thought to have been chosen to symbolize the dawn of a new Hokkaido development.
Changes in the Taisho and Showa Eras
From the Taisho era to the early Showa era, Sapporo Ancestral Spirit Shrine continued to grow alongside the development of Sapporo City. Many stone lanterns, water basins, and stone fences were donated to the shrine grounds, and it functioned as a center of faith for the local people.
In 1948 (Showa 23), after the war, the shrine’s name was changed from “Sapporo Ancestral Spirit Shrine” to “Sapporo Ancestral Spirit Shrine.” Furthermore, in 1953 (Showa 28), it received recognition as an independent religious corporation, becoming its current form. During this period, it established its status as an independent shrine separate from the Hokkaido Shrine Association.
Characteristics of the Deities and Beliefs
Main Deities: The Three Ancestral Gods and the Guardian Deity of the Land
The deities enshrined at Sapporo Soreijinja Shrine are as follows:
- The Three Ancestral Gods (Tenso Sanshin): Three deities centered around Amaterasu Omikami
- Guardian Deity of the Land (Ubusuna no Okami): Guardian deity of the land
- Okuninushi no Kami (Okuninushi no Kami): The main deity of Izumo Taisha Shrine, with a divided spirit enshrined from Sapporo Shrine
- The Eight Million Gods of Heaven and Earth (Tenjin Chigi Yaoyorozu no Kami): All gods
- Imperial Spirits (Kōreishin): Spirits of successive emperors
- Ancestral Spirits of the Parishioners (Ujiko Soreishin): Spirits of the ancestors of the parishioners
Role as a Center for Ancestral Spirit Worship
The most distinctive feature of Sapporo Soreijinja Shrine is, as its name suggests, that it is a shrine dedicated to “ancestral spirits.” Originally founded as a Shinto funeral hall, it has functioned as a place to enshrine the spirits of the ancestors of those who practice Shinto.
By enshrining the ancestral spirits of the parishioners as its principal deities, it serves to comfort the spirits of those who contributed to the development of Hokkaido from the pioneering era to the present day, and to pass on their achievements to future generations. This can be considered a unique form of worship specific to Sapporo Soreijinja Shrine, distinct from many other shrines.
Meaning of the Shrine Emblem “Five-Pointed Star (Red Star Emblem)”
Symbol of Hokkaido’s Development History
The shrine emblem of Sapporo Soreijinja Shrine is the “Five-Pointed Star (Red Star Emblem).” This emblem is also known as the trademark of Sapporo Beer and is widely recognized as a symbol of Hokkaido’s development history.
The five-pointed star design originates from Goryokaku in Hakodate and was adopted as a mark symbolizing the development of Hokkaido during the Meiji era. It was used in various facilities and projects established by the Hokkaido Development Commission and became established as a symbol representing Hokkaido’s modernization and development.
Deep Connections to the History of Hokkaido Development
The fact that Sapporo Soreijin Shrine uses a five-pointed star as its crest is evidence of its deep connection with the Hokkaido Development Commission. It is an important symbol showing the efforts of those involved with the Commission, including Kuroda Kiyotaka, in the shrine’s founding and development.
Even today, this crest can be seen in various places within the shrine grounds, serving to remind visitors of the history of Hokkaido’s development.
Highlights of the Shrine Grounds
Historic Stone Structures
Numerous stone structures built before and immediately after World War II remain within the grounds of Sapporo Soreijin Shrine. These are valuable cultural assets that tell the story of Hokkaido’s history.
Stone Lanterns: There are several stone lanterns donated from the Meiji to the early Showa period, each inscribed with the name of the donor and the date. These are valuable historical materials that convey the state of faith at that time.
Water Basin: The water basin used for purifying oneself before worship is also a historical one. The weathering of the stonework reveals that this place has welcomed worshippers for many years.
Stone Fence: The stone fence surrounding the main shrine bears the names of donors, a testament to the history of how the local people have carefully preserved this shrine.
Shrine Name Marker: The shrine name marker at the entrance to the grounds is also historical, with the words “Sapporo Sorei Shrine” boldly inscribed.
Architecture of the Main Shrine and Worship Hall
The current main shrine has undergone several repairs since its completion in 1885 (Meiji 18). Although the shrine stands amidst buildings, the main shrine exudes a solemn atmosphere, allowing one to forget the hustle and bustle of the city.
The architectural style is based on the Shinmei-zukuri style, simple yet conveying a sense of dignity. The worship hall, a place for worshippers to offer prayers, is kept clean.
Goshuin (Shrine Seals) and Amulets
Beautiful Goshuin with a Five-Pointed Star
The goshuin (shrine seal) of Sapporo Soreijinja Shrine is popular for its beautiful design, featuring the shrine’s crest, a five-pointed star. The goshuin has the words “Sapporo Soreijinja Shrine” written in ink and the five-pointed star stamped in red, giving it a simple yet powerful impression.
Goshuin are available at the shrine office, and the offering fee is usually around 300 to 500 yen. However, goshuin may not be available when the priest is absent, so it is recommended to check by phone in advance.
Amulets and Souvenirs
Sapporo Soreijinja Shrine also offers various amulets and souvenirs. In addition to common amulets for traffic safety, family safety, and academic success, there are also original souvenirs designed with the five-pointed star.
Annual Festivals and Events
Annual Festivals on the Spring and Autumn Equinoxes
Sapporo Soreijinja Shrine holds its annual festivals twice a year, on the spring and autumn equinoxes. This tradition, as a shrine dedicated to ancestral spirits, is based on the custom of comforting the spirits of ancestors during the equinox period.
At the spring festival, prayers are offered for a bountiful harvest in the new year and for the peace and prosperity of the community. At the autumn festival, a Shinto ritual is performed to give thanks for the year’s harvest. On the festival days, many parishioners and devotees visit the shrine, making it even more lively than usual.
Other Annual Events
Besides the annual festival, Sapporo Soreijinja Shrine holds various Shinto rituals throughout the year:
- Saitansai (January 1st): A Shinto ritual celebrating the New Year
- Setsubunsai (around February 3rd): A Shinto ritual to ward off evil and invite good fortune
- Natsukoshi no Oharae (June 30th): A Shinto ritual to cleanse away the sins and impurities accumulated over the past six months
- Toshikoshi no Oharae (December 31st): A Shinto ritual to cleanse away the sins and impurities accumulated over the past year
These events are closely intertwined with the lives of the local people and continue to pass on the Japanese tradition of cherishing the turning points of the four seasons.
Visiting Information and Access
Basic Information
Shrine Name: Sapporo Sorei Jinja (Sapporo Ancestral Spirit Shrine)
Address: 1-1, Minami 5-jo Nishi 8-chome, Chuo-ku, Sapporo City, Hokkaido
Phone Number: 011-531-7306
Visiting Hours: The shrine grounds are generally open for free worship (please check the shrine office’s reception hours)
Parking: Dedicated parking is limited, so the use of public transportation is recommended.
Access Methods
By Subway:
- Approximately 7 minutes on foot from Susukino Station on the Sapporo Municipal Subway Namboku Line
- Approximately 8 minutes on foot from Toyosui Susukino Station on the Sapporo Municipal Subway Toho Line
- Approximately 3 minutes on foot from Shiseikan Elementary School Station on the Sapporo Streetcar (nearest station)
By Bus:
- Approximately 2 minutes on foot from the Minami 5-jo Nishi 7-chome bus stop (Chuo Bus)
By Car:
- Approximately 10 minutes from Sapporo Station
- Located in the Susukino district, there are many coin-operated parking lots nearby.
Manners and Time Required for Visiting
Sapporo Sorei Shrine has a relatively compact grounds, but it’s a good idea to allow 20 to 30 minutes to leisurely view the historical stone structures.
When visiting, please observe the following manners:
- Bow before passing through the torii gate.
- Cleanse your hands and mouth at the water basin.
- At the main hall, pray using the “two bows, two claps, one bow” method.
- Be quiet on the grounds and be considerate of other visitors.
- Take photographs only in designated areas.
Nearby Tourist Attractions
Susukino District
Sapporo Sorei Shrine is located in the Susukino district, Hokkaido’s largest entertainment district. After visiting the shrine, you can enjoy the restaurants and shopping facilities around Susukino.
Nakajima Park
Located about a 10-minute walk from the shrine, Nakajima Park is a beloved urban oasis for the city’s residents. Visitors can enjoy the changing seasons: cherry blossoms in spring, lush greenery in summer, vibrant autumn leaves, and snowy landscapes in winter.
Hokkaido Shrine
Hokkaido Shrine (formerly Sapporo Shrine), which has deep historical ties to Sapporo Soreijinja Shrine, is located within Maruyama Park. It’s a shrine you should definitely visit when touring shrines in Sapporo.
Sapporo Soreijinja Shrine and the History of Hokkaido Development
Kuroda Kiyotaka and the Role of the Hokkaido Development Commission
Kuroda Kiyotaka, who encouraged the founding of Sapporo Soreijinja Shrine, is one of the most important figures in the development of Hokkaido. Originally from the Satsuma Domain, Kuroda became Vice Minister of Development (later Director of Development) in 1869 (Meiji 2), and took command of Hokkaido’s development.
Kuroda positioned Hokkaido’s development not merely as economic development, but as a cornerstone of Japan’s modernization and national defense. Therefore, the development of religious facilities to serve as a spiritual anchor for the settlers was also emphasized, and the construction of Sapporo Soreijinja Shrine was promoted as part of this effort.
Function as a Shinto Funeral Home
Initially, Sapporo Soreijinja Shrine functioned as a Shinto funeral home. While many of the people who settled in Hokkaido during the Meiji era were Buddhists, there were also a significant number who practiced Shintoism.
At that time, places for Shinto funerals were limited, and Sapporo Soreijinja Shrine played an important role in meeting this demand. Its construction at the entrance to the Akebono Joint Burial Cemetery was also a consideration for its function as a funeral home.
The Faith and Prayers of the Pioneers
The development of Hokkaido was an undertaking fraught with unimaginable difficulties. The settlers faced many trials, including the harsh climate, undeveloped land, and relationships with the indigenous people.
Sapporo Soreijinja Shrine was a place where these settlers could offer prayers to the spirits of their ancestors and find peace of mind. Furthermore, it also functioned as a place to comfort the spirits of those who died during the pioneering process, serving as a spiritual center connecting the living and the dead.
Significance of Sapporo Soreijinja Shrine in Modern Times
Value as a Cultural Asset that Conveys History
In modern times, Sapporo Soreijinja Shrine holds significant value as a valuable cultural asset that conveys the history of Hokkaido’s pioneering. Though a small shrine nestled amongst buildings, its historical importance is immeasurable.
The stone structures remaining on the grounds from the Meiji, Taisho, and Showa periods provide clues to the state of faith and social conditions of the time. The five-pointed star emblem is also an important symbol that visually demonstrates its deep connection to the history of Hokkaido’s pioneering.
A Place of Silent Prayer in the City
Despite being located in the bustling Susukino entertainment district, Sapporo Soreijinja Shrine functions as a place of tranquil prayer. It is a precious space where one can escape the hustle and bustle of the city and offer prayers in peace.
For local residents, it is a familiar shrine they can easily visit in their daily lives, and for tourists, it is an interesting spot to learn about Sapporo’s history. ### The Inheritance of Ancestor Worship
Ancestor worship, the practice of respecting and honoring ancestors’ spirits, is a fundamental concept in Japanese culture. Sapporo Soreijinja Shrine, as its name suggests, is a shrine centered on ancestor worship, and continues to uphold this tradition even today.
The annual festivals held on the spring and autumn equinoxes embody the traditional Japanese custom of comforting the spirits of ancestors during the O-higan period. Through these events, the shrine continues to convey the spirit of respecting ancestors to people today.
Summary: The Significance of Visiting Sapporo Soreijinja Shrine
Sapporo Soreijinja Shrine is a historic shrine that has watched over the history of Hokkaido for over 150 years since its founding in 1871 (Meiji 4). It was built for the ancestral worship of Shinto believers at the suggestion of Kiyotaka Kuroda, Vice Minister of the Hokkaido Development Commission, and has developed in close connection with Sapporo Shrine (now Hokkaido Jingu).
The five-pointed star (red star) crest of the shrine symbolizes its deep connection to the history of Hokkaido’s development and is also known as the trademark of Sapporo Beer, making it a symbol of Hokkaido. Numerous stone structures from the Meiji to early Showa periods remain on the shrine grounds, conveying a sense of historical weight.
The shrine enshrines the three ancestral deities, the local guardian deity, Okuninushi-no-kami, the eight million gods of heaven and earth, the imperial spirits, and the ancestral spirits of the parishioners, playing a particularly important role as a center of ancestral worship. The annual festivals held on the spring and autumn equinoxes continue the tradition of comforting the spirits of ancestors.
Despite being located in the heart of the urban Susukino district, Sapporo Soreijinja Shrine functions as a tranquil place of prayer. When visiting Hokkaido, why not pay your respects at this historic shrine and reflect on Hokkaido’s history from the pioneering era?
It is easily accessible, approximately a 3-minute walk from the Shiseikan Elementary School Station on the Sapporo Streetcar and approximately a 7-minute walk from Susukino Station on the subway. When requesting a Goshuin (temple/shrine stamp), it is recommended to confirm in advance by phone (011-531-7306).
Sapporo Sorei Shrine, while belonging to the Hokkaido Association of Shinto Shrines and maintaining its independence as an independent shrine, continues to attract the faith of the local people. Its history and tradition will undoubtedly continue to be passed down along with the city of Sapporo.
