Itomihi Shrine (意冨比神社) is one of the main shrines of Hokuto City. It is located at 2 Chome-8-1 Honcho in Hokuto City in Hokkaido Prefecture, Japan.
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| Itomihi Shrine |
Itomihi Shrine details
Itomihi Shrine (also known as Otomi Shrine
or Ohhijinja) is a place rich in history and spiritual significance. Though not
part of the Japan Shrine Headquarters, Itomihi Shrine is a proud member of the
Hokkaido Shrine Association. Dedicated to the powerful deity Amaterasu Omikami,
the shrine holds an important cultural role in the region and is an excellent
spot for travelers interested in Japanese history, spirituality, and
architecture.
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| Itomihi Shrine - Hokuto City, Hokkaido Prefecture |
The shrine’s origins can be traced back to
1656 when it was first rebuilt under the name Dainichi Shrine. The name was
later changed to Itomihi Shrine in 1875 after undergoing another
reconstruction. This marked a new chapter in the shrine’s long-standing
history. While much of the shrine’s earlier records remain elusive, the site is
known to have witnessed significant historical events, including the turbulent
period of the Hakodate War. On October 24, 1868, the grounds of Dainichi Shrine
became the battlefield for the forces of the Meiji new government and the rebel
army of Enomoto’s faction, which added an intriguing layer of history to the
shrine.
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| Itomihi Shrine's Torii Gate |
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| 意冨比神社 |
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| Itomihi Shrine's chozuya |
A historical marker at the shrine mentions
that there are bullet holes in the yew trees that still stand on the grounds,
serving as silent witnesses to the past. While these bullet holes could not be
located during a visit, it’s important to note that tree scars, including
bullet holes, often heal over time, leaving only faint traces of their past.
Itomihi Shrine Main Hall
One of the most intriguing features of
Itomihi Shrine is the so-called “crocodile mouth” structure, a historical
artifact thought to date back to the Heian period (794-1185). The structure is
engraved with the inscription "Kohei Sansai" from 1060. However, the
shape of the crocodile mouth itself is from the late Edo period (1603-1868),
suggesting that it was likely crafted after the Edo period, possibly as a
reconstruction or tribute to the earlier design.
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| Itomihi Shrine's Loyalty Monument |
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| Onoinari Shrine |
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| Onoinari Shrine's history board |
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| Onoinari Shrine's Torii Gate |
Visitors to Itomihi Shrine will find a
tranquil setting, surrounded by natural beauty. The oldest elements on the
shrine grounds are a sacred yew tree, estimated to be around 350 years old,
and a stone lantern dating back to 1912. While much of the current shrine’s
architecture and features come from the Showa (1926-1989) and Heisei
(1989-2019) eras, the site retains an air of timelessness, with its ancient
trees and peaceful surroundings offering a perfect escape from the modern
world.
Itomihi Shrine's Komainu
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| Itomihi Shrine's solo komainu |
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| Itomihi Shrine's komainu set 2 |
Today, Itomihi Shrine stands as a quiet
reminder of Japan's historical and spiritual heritage. The annual festival,
usually held on August 28th, celebrates the shrine's dedication to Amaterasu
Omikami and draws visitors from across the region.
Team Nicerio visits Itomihi Shrine
My family and I visited Itomihi Shrine for
the first time last April 3, 2023, during the third day of our 3-day Birthday
Road Trip. It was also my 518th day here in Japan as an ALT under the JET Programme. Itomihi Shrine was the first shrine that we visited for the
day, and like all our shrine visits, my daughter and I offered prayers and left
a wish before we left as part of our family tradition.
Itomihi Shrine Admission Fee
It’s FREE to enter and explore Itomihi
Shrine. However, if you collect goshuin stamps, make sure to bring cash.
Itomihi Shrine’s Operating Hours
Itomihi Shrine grounds are open 24/7. The
shrine office is open from 9AM to 4 PM.
Why visit Itomihi Shrine?
Whether you are a history enthusiast, a
spiritual seeker, or simply someone looking to connect with nature, Itomihi
Shrine offers a captivating experience. In addition, if you enjoy collecting
goshuin (shrine stamps), be sure to obtain Itomihi Shrine’s unique goshuin stamp, a
wonderful souvenir that commemorates your visit to this historic and tranquil
site.
Getting to Itomihi Shrine
There are various ways to reach Itomihi Shrine, but here’s the route I’m familiar with:
From Hakodate Station, proceed to Hakodate Sta. mae (Bus Stop No. 1) and take Bus No. 610 operated by the Hakobus Company, heading toward Esashi Terminal. Alight at the Sogo Bunchosha-mae bus stop. From there, it’s just a short walk to Itomihi Shrine.
Travel time: 49 minutes
Fare: 800 yen
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