Horoni Shrine - Hokkaido

Horoni Shrine (幌似神社) is the main shrine of the town of Kyowa. It is located at 132 Minamihoroni in the town of Kyowa, Iwanai District, Hokkaido Prefecture, Japan.

幌似神社
Horoni Shrine

Horoni Shrine Details

Horoni Shrine is a serene destination for visitors interested in Japan’s rich spiritual and cultural heritage. The village itself was founded around 1877, and its steady growth over the years led local leaders to establish a shrine to serve the community’s spiritual needs.

Horoni Shrine - Kyowa town, Hokkaido Prefecture
Horoni Shrine - Kyowa town, Hokkaido Prefecture

History and Construction

In January 1901, after discussions led by Goto Jisaburo and two other community leaders, an application to build the shrine was submitted and approved on May 27, 1901. Construction was completed in August of the same year, featuring a unique drifting-style architectural design that sets it apart from other shrines in the region.

Horoni Shrine's Main Hall

Horoni Shrine's Main Hall

Horoni Shrine's Main Hall

Horoni Shrine's Main Hall

Horoni Shrine's Main Hall

Horoni Shrine's Main Hall

Deities and Religious Significance

Horoni Shrine is currently classified as an unranked shrine, yet it holds deep significance for the local community. It is dedicated to the following deities:

  • Amaterasu Omikami – The sun goddess and central figure of Shinto belief
  • Ukemochino Kami – A deity associated with food and nourishment
  • Emperor Ojin – Honored as a protective figure for the village

Today, the shrine serves around 218 households, providing a place for worship, reflection, and community gatherings.

Horoni Shrine Grounds

Horoni Shrine's torii gate
Horoni Shrine's torii gate

Horoni Shrine's chozubachi
Horoni Shrine's chozubachi

The unpaved path going to Horoni Shrine from National Route 276
The unpaved path going to Horoni Shrine from National Route 276

Goshuin Information

Horoni Shrine does not offer goshuin (shrine stamps), making it a quieter, more intimate destination for those seeking a peaceful experience. Its historical architecture and cultural significance make it a must-visit spot for travelers exploring Kyowa’s Horoni Village Area and the surrounding Hokkaido region.

Team Nicerio visits Horoni Shrine

Team Nicerio visits Horoni Shrine

Team Nicerio visits Horoni Shrine
My family and I visited Horoni 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.

Horoni Shrine Admission Fee

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

Horoni Shrine Operating Hours

Horoni Shrine grounds are open 24/7.

Why visit Horoni Shrine?

Horoni Shrine offers a peaceful escape into Hokkaido’s cultural and spiritual heritage. Visitors can appreciate its unique drifting-style architecture, which reflects early 20th-century shrine construction techniques. The shrine’s dedication to deities like Amaterasu Omikami and Ukemochino Kami provides insight into local Shinto practices and traditions.

Unlike more crowded tourist shrines, Horoni Shrine remains quiet and intimate, allowing travelers to reflect, explore, and connect with the local community.

Getting to Horoni Shrine

From Kutchan Station, head out and go to JR Kutchan Eki bus stop and board the Kozawa Line – To Iwanai Terminal bus operated by Niseko Bus Company.

Get off at the Horoni bus stop and walk for about 450 meters to Horoni Shrine

Travel time: 37 minutes

Fare: 770 yen

Ratings

 

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Location: 132 Minamihoroni, Kyowa, Iwanai District, Hokkaido 048-2202, Japan

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