Monbetsu Itsukushima Shrine (紋別厳島神社) is the main shrine of Monbetsu City. It is located at 8 Chome-1-4 Hanazonocho, Monbetsu City in Hokkaido Prefecture, Japan.
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| Monbetsu Itsukushima Shrine |
Monbetsu Itsukushima Shrine Details
Monbetsu Itsukushima Shrine, a revered spiritual site in Hokkaido, has a fascinating history dating back to its founding in 1876. Established by Murayama Denbei, a local fishing ground contractor, the shrine has evolved over the years, becoming a symbol of community and tradition. Today, it stands as a religious corporation, serving over 7,700 households and playing a pivotal role in the region’s cultural heritage.
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| Monbetsu Itsukushima Shrine - Monbetsu City, Hokkaido Prefecture |
A Journey Through Time: The Evolution of Monbetsu Itsukushima Shrine
The history of Monbetsu Itsukushima Shrine is intertwined with the development of the Kitami region. Initially founded in 1876, the shrine began its journey as a local religious center. It became an unranked shrine in 1897, symbolizing its growing importance in the area. In 1918, it was designated as a village shrine, followed by its recognition as a town shrine in 1928. The shrine was officially recognized as a religious corporation in 1946, solidifying its status within the community.
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| Monbetsu Itsukushima Shrine's Main Torii |
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| Monbetsu Itsukushima Shrine's Inner Torii Gate |
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| Monbetsu Itsukushima Shrine's wooden torii |
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| The shrine's chozuya |
Monbetsu Itsukushima Shrine is widely believed to have played a crucial role in the Kitami development project, which helped shape the region’s growth. Revered as the god of Kitami’s nation, the shrine continues to be a spiritual beacon for the local population and visitors alike.
Architectural Marvels: The Shrine’s Restoration and Design
Over the years, Monbetsu Itsukushima Shrine has undergone several restoration projects to preserve its cultural significance and maintain its structural integrity. The shrine’s main hall, constructed using the traditional Ryuzo architectural design, stands as a testament to the craftsmanship and historical importance of the shrine.
Monbetsu Itsukushima Shrine's Main Hall
Significant structures on the shrine grounds include the shrine building, built in October 1957, the torii gate, which was erected in June 1935, and the chozuya (purification fountain), constructed in August 1965. Each of these features adds to the shrine’s unique charm, offering visitors a glimpse into the rich history and traditions that have shaped Monbetsu Itsukushima Shrine over the years.
Monbetsu Itsukushima Shrine Grounds
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| Monbetsu Taiheizan Miyoshi Shrine |
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| Soreisha |
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| Monbetsu Itsukushima Shrine's Loyalty Monument |
Monbetsu Itsukushima Shrine's Komainu Pairs
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| Monbetsu Itsukushima Shrine's Komainu Pair 1 (guarding the wooden torii) |
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| Monbetsu Itsukushima Shrine's Komainu Pair 2 (guarding the inner torii gate) |
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| Monbetsu Itsukushima Shrine's Komainu Pair 3 (guarding the main hall) |
A Spiritual Home for Princess Ichikishima
Monbetsu Itsukushima Shrine currently houses the deity Princess Ichikishima, one of the revered figures in Japanese mythology. Visitors come to the shrine to pay their respects, seeking blessings from the goddess who is believed to protect the region and its people.
Team Nicerio visits Monbetsu Itsukushima Shrine
My family and I visited Monbetsu Itsukushima Shrine for the first time on May 28, 2023. It marked my 573rd day in Japan as an ALT under the JET Programme. We made it a priority to include the shrine in our itinerary as part of our mission to visit all 179 municipalities in Hokkaido. Like our shrine visits, we made sure to pay respects and offer prayers.
Monbetsu Itsukushima Shrine Admission Fee
It's FREE to enter and explore Monbetsu Itsukushima Shrine grounds. However, if you collect goshuin, it is highly recommended that you bring cash.
Monbetsu Itsukushima Shrine Operating Hours
Monbetsu Itsukushima Shrine grounds are open 24/7. However, the shrine's office is open from 9 AM to 4 PM.
Why visit Monbetsu Itsukushima Shrine?
Monbetsu Itsukushima Shrine is a must-visit for anyone exploring Hokkaido. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and spiritual importance, it remains a cultural gem in the Kitami region. Whether you're a history lover, seeking a spiritual connection, or just want to experience one of Hokkaido's most beautiful landmarks, a visit to the shrine will leave you with lasting memories. Aside from that, if you collect goshuin, then this place is a must-visit.
Getting to Monbetsu Itsukushima Shrine:
From Asahikawa, ride the Dohoku Bus and alight at Monbetsu Terminal. From JR Nayoro Station, take either the Meishi Bus or Hokumon Bus and get off at Monbetsu Terminal.
Once there, walk for about 500 meters to reach Monbetsu Itsukushima Shrine.
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