Otori Shrine - Hokkaido

Otori Shrine (大鳥神社) is the main shrine of the town of Kuromatsunai. It is located at 463 Kuromatsunai in the town of Kuromatsunai in Suttsu District, Hokkaido Prefecture, Japan.

大鳥神社
Otori Shrine

Otori Shrine details

Otori Shrine is a testament to history and community spirit. Founded approximately 147 years ago, the shrine originally stood on the banks of the Shufuto River, near what is now Midoribashi. 

Otori Shrine - Kuromatsunai town, Hokkaido Prefecture
Otori Shrine - Kuromatsunai town, Hokkaido Prefecture

This sacred site is dedicated to Emperor Yamato Takeru, a revered figure in Japanese mythology, and its origins trace back to a small shrine established within the residence of Hanaoka Riemon, a member of the Matsumae clan.

Otori Shrine's Main torii gate
Otori Shrine's Main Torii gate

Otori Shrine

Otori Shrine's inner wooden Torii gate
Otori Shrine's inner wooden Torii gate

Otori Shrine's Main Hall

Otori Shrine's Main Hall

Otori Shrine's Main Hall

Otori Shrine's Main Hall

Otori Shrine's Main Hall

In 1876, the shrine gained official recognition as a village shrine following a collective effort by local residents. Over the decades, it underwent several relocations and transformations. Notable milestones include the sale of portions of its land to Hokkaido Railway Co., Ltd. in 1906 and 1914, which helped facilitate regional development. By 1934, Otori Shrine was designated as a Shinsenhei-ryokyushin Shrine, marking its elevated cultural and spiritual significance.

Other Things to See in Otori Shrine Grounds

Otori Shrine's 忠魂碑
Otori Shrine's Loyalty Monument

Does this sign say? 武田信一斧頭彩史 神剑及上武大

Otori Shrine

Otori Shrine

Otori Shrine

Otori Shrine's chozubachi
Otori Shrine's chozubachi

Today, Otori Shrine showcases the traditional Shinmei-zukuri architectural style, characterized by simplicity and elegance. It serves as a spiritual center for around 650 households in the area, continuing to foster a sense of unity and tradition.

Otori Shrine's komainu statues

Otori Shrine's komainu statues 1
Otori Shrine's Komainu Statues # 1

Otori Shrine's Komainu Statues # 2
Otori Shrine's Komainu Statues # 2

Otori Shrine's un-gyo
Otori Shrine's un-gyo

Otori Shrine's a-gyo
Otori Shrine's a-gyo

While Otori Shrine does not offer goshuin (shrine stamps) onsite, visitors can still collect its stamp at the nearby Rankoshi Menahachiman Shrine. This makes exploring the area even more rewarding, as it connects you to the spiritual heritage of Kuromatsunai.

Team Nicerio visits Otori Shrine

Team Nicerio visits Otori Shrine

Team Nicerio visits Otori Shrine

Team Nicerio visits Otori Shrine

On April 2, 2023, during the second day of our three-day Birthday Road Trip, my family and I visited Otori Shrine. This visit marked my 517th day in Japan as an ALT under the JET Programme. I made it a point to include this shrine in our itinerary as part of our Hokkaido 179 challenge to visit a shrine in every municipality that we visited in the prefecture. During our visit, my daughter and I did our tradition of paying respects by offering prayers. Aside from that, we also made a wish before leaving the shrine grounds. 

Otori Shrine Admission Fee

It’s FREE to enter and explore Otori Shrine grounds. 

Otori Shrine’s Operating Hours

Otori Shrine is accessible 24/7, allowing visitors to explore its serene grounds anytime. For specific services or inquiries, you can reach the shrine at ☏ 0136-72-4351.

Why visit Otori Shrine?

Otori Shrine is more than just a place of worship—it’s a historical journey that reflects the resilience and dedication of the local community. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a lover of Japanese culture, or simply seeking tranquility, this shrine promises a unique and enriching experience.

Getting to Otori Shrine

 

From Niseko Station, take the Local Oshamambe train on the Hakodate Line and get off at Kuromatsunai Station. Once there, it's about a 900-meter walk to reach Otori Shrine.

Travel time: 1 hour and 6 minutes
Fare: 1,130 yen

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