Embetsu Shrine - Hokkaido

Embetsu Shrine (遠別神社) is the town's main shrine. It celebrates its annual holiday on July 15th. The shrine is located at 5-13 Honmachi in the town of Embetsu in Hokkaido Prefecture, Japan. 

Embetsu Shrine - Embetsu, Hokkaido
Embetsu Shrine

Embetsu Shrine details

(SUMMER)

Embetsu Shrine (遠別神社)
Embetsu Shrine (遠別神社)

Katsutaro Hitodomari of Toyama Prefecture enshrined Jingu Taima in a cave and performed a ritual in the middle of the Meiji period. The spirit of Nara Kasuga Shrine was enshrined in 1925, and the transfer ceremony took place on October 31st. It currently houses the following deities: Takemikatsuchi no Kami, Futsunushi no Kami, Amenokoyane no Mikoto, and Himekami.

Embetsu Shrine's main torii

Embetsu Shrine's secondary torii
Embetsu Shrine's secondary torii

Embetsu Shrine was designated as a local shrine on October 15, 1931, and was then classified as a Shinsen Heihaku Ryokushin Shrine on August 25, 1975. Currently, Embetsu Shrine is listed as a village shrine and serves about 1400 households.

Embetsu Shrine
Trees line up the approach from the main torii to the second torii gate



Embetsu Shrine's chozuya
Embetsu Shrine's chozuya

Over the years, Embetsu Shrine has undergone various upgrades and restorations, ensuring that its historical and cultural significance is well-preserved. The shrine boasts a unique Shinmei-zukuri architectural design, which is a traditional style often associated with Shinto shrines.

Embetsu Shrine's un-gyo komainu
Embetsu Shrine's un-gyo komainu 

Embetsu Shrine's a-gyo komainu
Embetsu Shrine's a-gyo komainu 

Embetsu Shrine's komainu
Embetsu Shrine's komainu 

Among the improvements made to Embetsu Shrine, a new approach block was constructed on June 28, 1967, providing easier access for visitors. On June 30, 1989, the shrine underwent significant repair work to maintain its structural integrity. Additionally, on September 24, 1999, the approach to the shrine was paved to further improve the visitor experience.

Embetsu Shrine Main Hall
Embetsu Shrine Main Hall

Embetsu Shrine prayer hall
Ella offered her prayers

Currently, the shrine has a total area of 43.2 tsubos, equivalent to 142.8 square meters, offering ample space for visitors to explore and appreciate its beauty.


My family and I visited Embetsu Shrine for the first time last August 12, 2022, which was my 41st week here in Japan as an ALT under the JET Programme. It was one of the destinations that we visited on the 1st day of our 5-day "Drive Up North" Road Trip. It was the last place that we visited before leaving Embetsu. During our visit, we paid our respects and offered some prayers.

Embetsu Shrine Entrance Fee

It’s FREE to enter and explore the grounds of Embetsu Shrine.

Embetsu Shrine Operating Hours

Embetsu Shrine grounds are open 24/7. 

Why visit Embetsu Shrine?

Embetsu Shrine is the main shrine of the town of Embetsu. It is a sacred place and is believed by many to protect the people and the town from disasters. Sadly, you won't be able to get a goshuin from this shrine.

Getting to Embetsu Shrine


From Rumoi City, ride the Engan Bus going to Toyotomi. Board down at Embetsu hon-cho 2 - chome bus stop. From there, walk heading to Embetsu Agricultural High School. You will see the shrine along the way. 

Travel time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Fare: 2100 yen

Ratings

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Overall rating


Location: Embetsu, Teshio District, Hokkaido, Japan

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