Saruru Shrine - Hokkaido

Saruru Shrine (沙留神社) is one of the main shrines of the town of Okoppe. It is located at 327 Saruru in the town of Okoppe, Mombetsu District in Hokkaido Prefecture, Japan.

Saruru Shrine

Saruru Shrine Details

Saruru Shrine stands as a testament to enduring faith, rich tradition, and deep-rooted community spirit. With a history dating back to the late 19th century, this humble yet spiritually significant Shinto shrine remains a cherished place of worship for locals and a hidden gem for visitors seeking cultural depth.

Saruru Shrine - Okoppe town, Hokkaido Prefecture

A Shrine Born from Devotion and Unity

The origins of Saruru Shrine trace back to around 1894, when Fujino Matabei, a fisherman operating in the Saru area, erected a monument on a nearby hill and enshrined Amaterasu Omikami, the sun goddess revered in Shinto belief. As more settlers made Saru their permanent home, the community united to create a spiritual haven. By 1900, a new shrine was constructed at its current location, and annual grand ceremonies have been held ever since—an enduring tradition that strengthens the village’s cultural identity.

Saruru Shrine's torii gate

From Tragedy to Restoration

In April 1923, tragedy struck when a fire, originating from a charcoal shed on Yamaguchi Farm, completely destroyed the original structure. Undeterred, the villagers built a temporary shrine and continued their ceremonies without pause.

A major rebuilding effort began in 1935, spearheaded by Machida Narusaku and Shimizu Rikichi, as part of a commemorative project celebrating the birth of the Crown Prince. By September of that year, a new shrine was completed, and a grand enshrinement ceremony marked its rebirth.

Saruru Shrine's Main Hall

A Shrine Honoring Sea and Commerce Deities

In 1942, Shinto priest Fujiwara Giichi, alongside local leaders Machida Seisaku and Shimizu Rikichi, journeyed to Itsukushima Shrine in Hiroshima, famed for its role in safeguarding fishing and maritime safety. Upon returning, they enshrined the same guardian spirit at Saruru Shrine, blessing the town’s fishing industry. An Inari Shrine was added in 1943 to honor the deity of commerce and prosperity, making the shrine an important spiritual center not just for fishermen but also for local business owners.

By November 1946, Saruru Shrine gained official recognition as a Shinto institution and has since continued to host vibrant annual festivals and sacred rituals that highlight the community’s enduring devotion.

Saruru Shrine grounds

Saruru Shrine grounds

Saruru Shrine's chozubachi

Saruru Shrine Today

Today, Saruru Shrine covers about 95 square meters and is home to the revered deities Amaterasu Omikami and Princess Ichikishima, associated with light, protection, and good fortune. The shrine serves approximately 300 households and continues to play a vital role in the spiritual and cultural life of the community.

Team Nicerio visits Saruru Shrine

On July 16, 2023, my daughter and I visited Saruru Shrine for the first time during the second day of our Father and Daughter Road Trip #5. It also coincided with my 622nd day in Japan as an ALT under the JET Programme. As part of our Hokkaido 179 travel goals, my family and I made sure to visit at least one of the main shrines of the municipality that we visited. Saruru Shrine is actually one of the two shrines that we visited in Okoppe. This shrine has a good view of the sea.

Saruru Shrine Admission Fee

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

Saruru Shrine Operating Hours

Saruru Shrine is open 24/7.

 

Why visit Saruru Shrine?

There is nothing much to do in Saruru Shrine. It does not have a goshuin either. Regardless, it’s a good stopover if you plan to go camping at Saruru Beach.

 

Getting to Saruru Shrine

The most convenient way to reach Saruru Shrine is by rental or private car, especially if you're planning to explore the rural beauty of Hokkaido at your own pace. The roads are well-maintained, and driving allows easy access to nearby attractions as well.

While it's also possible to take a taxi from Mombetsu City, travelers should note that this option can be quite costly due to the distance and limited public transport options in the area. For a smoother and more budget-friendly experience, a car rental is highly recommended.

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