Tomari Inari Shrine (泊稲荷神社)
is the main shrine of the village of Tomari. It is located at 82 Tomari, Furu
District in Hokkaido Prefecture, Japan.
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| Tomari Inari Shrine |
Tomari Inari Shrine Details
Tomari Inari Shrine in Hokkaido is a captivating destination
for those interested in Japanese history, culture, and spirituality. In 1682, the shrine
was originally founded by Tatsuke Shinsuke (Fukushimaya), a site
contractor from the Omi Province, who enshrined his family’s sacred seal in
Tomari to pray for the prosperity of his family business and the tranquility of
the area.
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| Tomari Inari Shrine - Tomari village, Hokkaido Prefecture |
Historical Milestones of Tomari Inari Shrine
Tomari Inari Shrine has a rich history that spans over two
centuries. In 1801, the spirit of Kyoto’s Fushimi Inari Shrine
was enshrined as the main deity. Later, in 1844, branches of Sanuki
Konpira Shrine and Harima Kuniumi Shrine’s Oumitsumi-no-kami were
added, further expanding the shrine’s spiritual significance.
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| The history of Tomari Inari Shrine |
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| 泊稲荷神社 |
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| Tomari Inari Shrine torii gate |
In 1862, site contractor Tatsuke Shinbei, manager
Masukawa Ichirobei, and Hamana no Okami Wadaya Rikizo oversaw the construction
of the main hall in Shiokoshi, Dewa Province. Using carved zelkova wood
transported by benzaisen ships, the hall was assembled entirely with
wedges, without the use of nails. By 1875, the shrine was officially
ranked as a village shrine.
Tomari Inari Shrine's Main Hall
During the Meiji period, the worship hall was
rebuilt and subsequently expanded and remodeled in 1941. Finally, in 1946,
Tomari Inari Shrine became a registered religious corporation, solidifying its
role as a central spiritual site for the community.
Things to see in the Tomari Inari Shrine grounds
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| Tomari Inari Shrine's chozuya |
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| Tomari Inari Shrine's chozubachi |
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| The coast of the Shakotan Peninsula as seen from the shrine grounds |
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| Loyalty Monument |
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| Tomari Fishing Port as seen from the shrine grounds |
Tomari Inari Shrine Today
Currently, the shrine is dedicated to Ukemochi no Kami
and serves around 200 households in the area. Visitors interested in the
shrine’s goshuin (official shrine stamp) can obtain them at Konpira
Shrine in the town of Iwanai.
Tomari Inari Shrine's Komainu pair
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| Tomari Inari Shrine's komainu pair |
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| Tomari Inari Shrine's un-gyo |
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| Tomari Inari Shrine's a-gyo |
Tomari Inari Shrine not only offers spiritual significance
but also provides a glimpse into the architectural ingenuity and cultural
heritage of Hokkaido. Its historic construction and enduring traditions make it
a must-visit for travelers exploring Tomari and the surrounding region.
Team Nicerio visits Tomari Inari Shrine
My family and I visited Tomari Inari Shrine on October
8, 2023, during the second day of our 3-day “Sports Day 2023” road
trip. Coincidentally, it also marked my 706th day in Japan as an ALT under the JET Programme.
As part of our ongoing adventure to visit all 179 municipalities in Hokkaido, we've made it a personal mission to stop by at
least one main shrine in each town to pay our respects and offer prayers.
Tomari Inari Shrine Admission Fee
It’s FREE to enter and explore Tomari Inari Shrine grounds.
Tomari Inari Shrine Operating Hours
Tomari Inari Shrine grounds are open 24/7.
Why Visit Tomari Inari Shrine?
Visiting Tomari Inari Shrine offers a unique
opportunity to explore Hokkaido’s rich spiritual and cultural heritage. The
shrine’s historic architecture, including the main hall made entirely of
zelkova wood without nails, showcases the craftsmanship of the 19th century.
Its connection to famous shrines such as Fushimi Inari and Konpira
Shrine highlights its cultural significance. Visitors can also experience
traditional Japanese practices, admire the serene surroundings, and obtain the
shrine’s goshuin at nearby Konpira Shrine in Iwanai. For travelers
interested in history, spirituality, and local culture, Tomari Inari Shrine is
a peaceful and meaningful destination that brings the traditions of Hokkaido to
life.
Getting to Tomari Inari Shrine
From Iwanai, board the Chuo Bus heading to Kamieuchi,
alight at Tomari Yakuba-mae, and walk about 10 minutes to reach
the destination.
Ratings
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.jpg "Team Nicerio visits Tomari Inari Shrine")
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