Hiroshima Shrine (廣島神社) is the main shrine of Kitahiroshima City. It is located at 4-3-2 Chuo, Kitahiroshima City in Hokkaido Prefecture, Japan.
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| Hiroshima Shrine |
Hiroshima Shrine Details
Hiroshima Shrine stands as a symbol of determination, faith, and the indomitable spirit of the early settlers. Its history is a fascinating journey, intertwining the aspirations of one man with the enduring traditions of Shinto belief.
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| Hiroshima Shrine - Kitahiroshima City, Hokkaido Prefecture |
The Origins: A Prayer for Success
In April 1883, Ikujiro Wada embarked on a monumental journey from Hiroshima Prefecture to Hokkaido, carrying with him the hopes of agricultural prosperity and community building. Before leaving, Wada visited the revered Ise Shrine, where he prayed for success in his reclamation efforts and received a portion of the deity’s spirit to act as the guardian of the immigrants.
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| Hiroshima Shrine's main torii |
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| Hiroshima Shrine grounds |
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| There are plenty of furin or glass chimes on the shrine grounds |
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| Hiroshima Shrine's chozuya |
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| Hiroshima Shrine's chozubachi |
Upon arriving in Hokkaido, Wada selected a pristine location and constructed a modest shrine to enshrine the deity. This humble structure became a spiritual anchor for the Hiroshima Prefecture immigrants. Recognizing the growing needs of the community, Wada built a larger, temporary shrine in 1886, marking the establishment of what would later be known as Hiroshima Shrine. By 1890, the shrine was expanded further, and two additional deities were enshrined, solidifying its role as a significant religious site.
Architectural Evolution: A Tribute to Shinmei-zukuri
Over its long history, the shrine has undergone several reconstructions, reflecting the community's commitment to preserving its sanctity. The current shrine building, completed in December 1980, exemplifies the Shinmei-zukuri architectural style, a minimalist design that emphasizes simplicity and harmony with nature.
Hiroshima Shrine's Main Hall
Deities Enshrined at Hiroshima Shrine
Hiroshima Shrine houses three powerful deities:
Amaterasu Oomikami: The sun goddess and central deity of Shinto, symbolizing light, harmony, and prosperity.
Okuninushi no Okami: Known as the god of nation-building and agriculture, representing the shrine's connection to the settlers' aspirations.
Kotoshironushi no Okami: A deity associated with good fortune and commerce, reflecting the hopes of the immigrant community for a prosperous future.
Other things to see in the Hiroshima Shrine grounds
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| A monument in the Hiroshima Shrine grounds |
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| Kaimura Monument |
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| Loyalty Monument |
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| Kaimura Monument information board |
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| The history of Hiroshima Shrine |
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| Omikuji on Hiroshima Shrine grounds |
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| Different ema designs on the Hiroshima Shrine grounds |
A Spiritual Hub for the Community
Today, Hiroshima Shrine serves approximately 18,000 households, providing a spiritual home for worshippers. The shrine is not only a religious site but also a cultural beacon, connecting modern-day Hokkaido residents to their historical roots and the pioneering spirit of the early settlers.
Hiroshima Shrine komainu
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| Hiroshima Shrine komainu pair #1 |
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| Hiroshima Shrine komainu pair #2 |
Team Nicerio visits Hiroshima Shrine
On July 28, 2023, during our Siblings Road Trip 4, my daughter, siblings, and I had the chance to visit Hiroshima Shrine. It marked my 634th day in Japan as an ALT under the JET Programme. True to our Hokkaido 179 travel goals, I ensured that the main shrine of each new municipality we explored became a part of our itinerary.
Located in the heart of Kitahiroshima City, Hiroshima Shrine offered a serene and tranquil escape, far removed from the city's usual bustle. As part of our cherished family tradition, we offered prayers and made heartfelt wishes, adding a meaningful touch to our visit.
Hiroshima Shrine Admission Fee
It’s FREE to enter and explore Hiroshima Shrine. However, if you collect goshuins or omamoris, then make sure to bring cash.
Hiroshima Shrine Operating Hours
Hiroshima Shrine grounds are open 24/7. The shrine office is open from 9 AM to 5 PM.
Why visit Hiroshima Shrine?
Hiroshima Shrine offers a unique look into Hokkaido's agricultural history, with its serene setting, Shinmei-zukuri design, and inspiring stories of resilience and devotion. Add it to your Hokkaido itinerary for a meaningful and memorable experience.
Getting to Hiroshima Shrine
Kita-Hiroshima Station is the nearest station to Hiroshima Shrine. It only takes around 12 minutes to walk from the station to the shrine.
Alternatively, you can also ride the Sampomachi/Tobu SenF Village Iriguchi/Sogo Taiikukan bus operated by the Chuo Bus Company.
Travel time: 6 minutes
Fare: 240 yen
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