Teine Shrine Complete Guide | A Thorough Explanation of History, Deities, Blessings, Grounds, and Annual Events
Teine Shrine, located in Teine Ward, Sapporo City, is a historic shrine that has been cherished by the local community since the Meiji era. Situated at the foot of Mount Teine, it is deeply revered as the guardian shrine of the region. This article comprehensively introduces information you should know before visiting Teine Shrine, from its history, enshrined deities, blessings, grounds highlights, annual events, and access methods.
What is Teine Shrine?
Teine Shrine is a shrine located in Teine Honcho, Teine Ward, Sapporo City, and has a history intertwined with the development of the Teine area. Beginning as a place of worship for Hokkaido Shrine, it is now a representative shrine of Teine Ward, attracting many visitors.
Within the shrine grounds, in addition to the main hall, there is the inner shrine at the summit of Mt. Teine, the Fujishiro Ryujin Shrine (a subsidiary shrine), and special stones such as the “Wishing Stone” and the “Stretching Stone,” making it a popular destination for worshippers seeking various blessings.
History of Teine Shrine
Founded in the Meiji Era
The history of Teine Shrine dates back to the Meiji era. The immigrants to Teine Village at the time regularly visited Sapporo Shrine (present-day Hokkaido Shrine). However, during winter and the busy farming season, it was difficult to travel to Sapporo, so there was a need to provide convenience for villagers to worship.
On December 26, 1896 (Meiji 29), the 250 households of the village unanimously applied for the establishment of an official Sapporo Shrine remote worship site, which was approved on September 4 of the following year. This site came to be revered as the “Karukawa Remote Worship Site.”
Elevation to Teine Shrine
Following the rise of the village’s prosperity, an application for the ceremony to re-elevate the shrine was submitted on September 10, 1898 (Meiji 31). Permission was granted on May 18, 1899 (Meiji 32), and the shrine officially became known as “Teine Shrine.” This is considered the official founding of Teine Shrine.
Starting with the construction of a small shrine, it became a spiritual center for the villagers of Teine, enshrining a divided spirit of Hokkaido Shrine and taking up residence in this location.
Development since the Showa Era
In 1947 (Showa 22), the Teineyama Okumiya (inner shrine), the highest-altitude shrine in Hokkaido, was established. The construction of the Okumiya at the summit of Mount Teine (1,023 meters above sea level) further expanded the faith in Teine Shrine.
In August 1999 (Heisei 11), to commemorate the 100th anniversary of its founding, a shrine name marker and a monument detailing the history of Teine Shrine were erected next to the first torii gate, and they remain there to this day.
Deities and Benefits
Deities
Teine Shrine enshrines the same deities as Hokkaido Shrine:
- Okunitama-no-kami: God of the land of Hokkaido
- Onamuchi-no-kami: God of land management and development
- Sukunahikona-no-kami: God of land management, medicine, and sake brewing
- Emperor Meiji: Emperor who laid the foundation for modern Japan
These deities are revered as guardians of the development and growth of Hokkaido, and of the lives of its people.
Benefits
Teine Shrine is believed to offer the following benefits:
- Protection from Misfortune: Warding off calamities at life’s turning points
- Prayer for Health and Recovery: Protection of physical and mental health
- Abundant Harvest: Praying for a bountiful harvest in agriculture and fishing
- Business Prosperity: Development of businesses and prosperity of trade
- Prosperity of Descendants: Prosperity of family and prayers for children
- Increased Financial Fortune: Improvement of wealth and financial luck
- Prayer for Success in Exams and Academic Achievement: Success in exams and academic achievement
- Career Advancement: Social success and career advancement
In particular, the “Senobi Stone” is believed to bring benefits not only for praying for a child’s growth, but also for “worldly advancement” (growth in the world), career advancement, and success in exams.
Shrine Grounds Guide
Main Hall and Worship Hall
The main hall of Teine Shrine is built in the traditional style of shrine architecture, creating a solemn atmosphere. In addition to regular worship, various prayers and rituals are performed in the worship hall.
Shrine Office
The shrine office handles the distribution of amulets and talismans, and accepts requests for prayers. You can also receive a Goshuin (shrine stamp) here during your visit.
The office hours are usually from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, but these may change depending on festivals and events, so it is recommended to check in advance.
Fujishiro Ryujin Shrine
Within the shrine grounds is the Fujishiro Ryujin Shrine, dedicated to the white snake. White snakes have been considered symbols of good fortune, business prosperity, and abundance since ancient times, and attract special devotion.
The Fujishiro Ryujin Shrine is a popular spot for visitors praying for improved financial fortune and business prosperity, and many people visit it in conjunction with their visit to the main hall.
Fujishiro Ryujin Shrine is a popular spot for visitors praying for increased wealth and business success, and many visit it in conjunction with their main hall visit. ### Wishing Stone and Fulfilling Stone
Within the grounds of Teine Shrine, there is a “Wishing Stone” said to possess mysterious powers. It is believed that various wishes will be granted by praying at this stone.
Visitors can sincerely make a wish in front of the Wishing Stone and take home a small stone called a “Fulfilling Stone.” It is customary to return the stone with gratitude when the wish is granted.
Stretching Stone
The “Stretching Stone” is a special stone for praying for children’s growth. Not only do visitors witness their children’s growth, but the wordplay between “stretching” and “growth” (senobi) suggests success in life and passing exams.
Many families can be seen taking commemorative photos in front of this stone, praying for their children’s healthy growth.
Teineyama Summit Inner Shrine
Founded in 1947, the Teineyama Summit Inner Shrine is the highest shrine in Hokkaido, located on the summit of Mount Teine at an altitude of 1,023 meters. Every summer, the Okumiya Festival and the Radio Safety Prayer Festival are held at the summit of Mt. Teine. During the climbing season, many climbers visit the Okumiya Shrine to pray for safety during their climbs.
Annual Festivals and Events
Teine Shrine holds various festivals and events throughout the year.
New Year’s Day Festival (January 1st)
This festival celebrates the beginning of the new year and is bustling with many first-time visitors. It is an important festival to pray for peace and prosperity in the new year.
Setsubun Festival (around February 3rd)
Festival events such as bean-throwing are held to pray for protection from evil and good fortune. This is a traditional event in which many local residents participate.
Spring Festival (Spring)
This festival celebrates the arrival of spring and prays for a bountiful harvest and the development of the region.
Summer Festival & Summer Purification Ceremony (Late June – July)
During the summer festival, the Summer Purification Ceremony is held to cleanse away the sins and impurities accumulated over the past six months. The Local Foundation Spirit Commemoration Festival (since 2020) and the Teine Shrine Inner Sanctuary Festival and Radio Wave Safety Prayer Ceremony, both located at the summit of Mt. Teine, are also held.
The festival includes a portable shrine procession and various other festive events within the shrine grounds, with numerous stalls, making it the largest festival in the region.
Autumn Grand Festival (September)
The Teine Shrine Grand Festival is the most historic and culturally significant event in Teine, and many people still look forward to the portable shrine procession, entertainment, and stalls.
During the portable shrine procession, local parishioners and neighborhood associations participate, parading through the town with energetic shouts and cheers. Various dedication ceremonies and performances are held within the temple grounds, numerous stalls line the streets, and the entire area is enveloped in the festive atmosphere.
Shichi-Go-San Pilgrimage (November)
The Shichi-Go-San pilgrimage, a prayer for the healthy growth of children, is held. Many families visit, and can be seen taking commemorative photos.
Great Purification Ceremony (December 31st)
As the culmination of the year, the Great Purification Ceremony is held. This is an important Shinto ritual to cleanse away the sins and impurities of the past year and welcome the new year with a pure heart.
About Prayers
Types of Prayers
At Teine Shrine, you can receive various types of prayers to suit different milestones and wishes in your life:
- Exorcism Prayer: Exorcism and protection from evil for those in their unlucky years
- First Shrine Visit: Prayers for the healthy growth of a baby
- Shichi-Go-San Ceremony: Prayers for the growth of children aged 3, 5, and 7
- Prayer for Success in Exams: Prayers for success in exams and academic achievement
- Business Prosperity: Prayers for business prosperity and success
- Family Safety: Prayers for the health and safety of the family
- Traffic Safety: Prayers for vehicle blessings and traffic safety
- Recovery from Illness: Prayers for recovery from illness
- Prayer for Safe Childbirth: Prayers for safe childbirth and the health of mother and child
Prayer Reception
Prayer reception is handled at the shrine office. Reception hours are usually from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, but these may change depending on festivals and events, so we recommend checking by phone in advance.
Especially during the New Year period, Shichi-Go-San (children’s festival), and on festival days, crowds are expected, so we recommend visiting with plenty of time to spare.
List of Unlucky Years
Unlucky years are considered to be ages that mark turning points in life and require particular caution. Teine Shrine holds exorcism prayer ceremonies for those in their unlucky years.
General Unlucky Years (by traditional Japanese age counting):
- Men: 25, 42 (major unlucky year), 61
- Women: 19, 33 (major unlucky year), 37, 61
Those in their unlucky years can pray for peace and tranquility throughout the year by receiving an exorcism at the beginning of the year.
Amulets and Talismans
Types of Items Offered
Teine Shrine offers a variety of amulets and talismans:
- Exorcism Amulet: Protection from misfortune and disaster
- Health Amulet: Prayer for good health and recovery from illness
- Academic Success Amulet: Prayer for passing exams and academic achievement
- Business Prosperity Amulet: Prosperity in business and thriving business
- Traffic Safety Amulet: Prayer for traffic safety
- Safe Childbirth Amulet: Prayer for safe childbirth
- Childbearing Amulet: Prayer for having children
- Financial Fortune Amulet: Increased financial fortune and improved wealth
- Family Safety Talisman: Peace and safety in the home
Goshuin (Shrine Seal)
Teine Shrine offers goshuin (shrine seals) as a memento of your visit. Please bring your goshuincho (seal book) and apply during the shrine office’s reception hours.
The Goshuin (temple/shrine stamp) at Teine Shrine is a dignified and carefully handwritten in ink, and many people collect it as a memento of their visit.
Access and Location
Location
Teine Shrine
〒006-0022
4-25, Teinehoncho 2-jo 3-chome, Teine-ku, Sapporo City, Hokkaido
Access by Train
- Approximately 5 minutes on foot from JR Hakodate Main Line “Teine Station”
Exit the south exit of Teine Station and head south along Teinehondori Street. You will arrive at Teine Shrine in about 5 minutes on foot. It is very conveniently located near the station.
Access by Bus
Get off at the “Teinehoncho” bus stop on any JR Hokkaido Bus or JR Hokkaido Bus route, and it’s about a 3-minute walk.
Access by Car
Approximately 10 minutes from the Sapporo-Otaru Expressway “Teine IC”. It is also accessible from National Route 5.
Parking
There is a parking lot for visitors on the shrine grounds. However, congestion is expected during the New Year period and festivals such as the annual grand festival, so we recommend using public transportation.
Manners and Etiquette for Visiting Shrines
How to Pass Through the Torii Gate
The torii gate of a shrine is the boundary separating the sacred area from the secular world. Before passing through the torii gate, bow and compose yourself before entering the shrine grounds.
Proper Ritual for Washing Hands
- Take the ladle with your right hand and wash your left hand.
- Switch the ladle to your left hand and wash your right hand.
- Switch the ladle back to your right hand, receive water in your left hand, and rinse your mouth.
- Wash your left hand again.
- Hold the ladle upright, wash the handle, and return it to its original position.
Proper Ritual for Worshiping at the Main Hall
- Stand in front of the offering box and bow slightly.
- Gently place your offering in the box.
- If there is a bell, ring it.
- Perform the two bows, two claps, one bow (bowing deeply twice, clapping twice, bowing deeply once).
- After clapping, silently recite your wish.
Attractions Around Teine Shrine
Teine Honmachi Shopping Street
A traditional shopping street stretches around Teine Shrine, supporting the lives of local residents. You can enjoy shopping and dining at local shops before or after your visit to the shrine.
Teineyama Mountain
Teineyama Mountain, towering behind Teine Shrine, is a mountain beloved by Sapporo residents. It’s a popular spot for skiing in winter and for mountain climbing and hiking in summer. The inner shrine of Teine Shrine is located at its summit.
History of Teine Ward
Teine Ward is a region that developed primarily through agriculture, beginning with settlement during the Meiji era. Teine Shrine is a shrine that has walked hand-in-hand with this history of settlement, and is an important spot for understanding the region’s history.
Difference from Kami-Teine Shrine
In addition to “Teine Shrine,” there is also a shrine called “Kami-Teine Shrine” in Teine Ward. These two shrines are separate, so please be careful when visiting.
About Kami-Teine Shrine
Kami-Teine Shrine originated in 1876 (Meiji 9) when settlers from the Sendai Domain erected a small shrine dedicated to Susanoo-no-Mikoto as their guardian deity. In 1898 (Meiji 31), Amaterasu-Omikami was also enshrined there.
Since the locations, enshrined deities, and histories differ, it is recommended to check which shrine you intend to visit before planning your pilgrimage.
The Charm of Teine Shrine
The greatest charm of Teine Shrine lies in its long history dating back to the Meiji era and its deeply rooted community faith. Revered as a spiritual anchor for the people of Teine since the pioneering days, it remains a beloved local guardian shrine for many visitors.
Within the shrine grounds, numerous special power spots are scattered, including the Wishing Stone, the Stretching Stone, and the Fujishiro Ryujin Shrine, attracting visitors with various wishes. Furthermore, the Okumiya (inner shrine) at the summit of Mount Teine is the highest shrine in Hokkaido and a popular spot for hikers.
Various festivals and events are held throughout the year, and the Autumn Grand Festival, in particular, is the largest traditional event in the Teine region, beloved by many. The procession of the portable shrine, the stalls, and the dedication ceremonies, with the entire community coming together to enliven the festival, is a unique charm of Teine Shrine.
Summary
Teine Shrine is a historic shrine that has been revered by the local people as the guardian shrine of the Teine area since its founding in 1899 (Meiji 32). It enshrines a divided spirit of Hokkaido Shrine and is believed to offer various blessings, including protection from evil, good health, business prosperity, and success in examinations.
Within the shrine grounds, there are several special power spots, such as the Wishing Stone, the Stretching Stone, and the Fujishiro Dragon Shrine. The highest-altitude inner shrine in Hokkaido is located at the summit of Mount Teine. Various festivals and events are held throughout the year, with the Autumn Grand Festival being particularly popular as the largest traditional event in the region.
It is conveniently located just a 5-minute walk from JR Teine Station. When you visit Teine, be sure to pay your respects at Teine Shrine and experience the history of pioneering and the traditions of the region.
