Shimizu Shrine - Hokkaido

Shimizu Shrine (清水神社) is the main shrine of the town of Shimizu. It is located at 2-2, Kita 3 Jonishi in the town of Shimizu, Kamikawa District in Hokkaido Prefecture, Japan.

Shimizu Shrine

Shimizu Shrine Details

Shimizu Shrine is a serene and historically significant site that attracts both locals and travelers seeking a spiritual escape. Known for its peaceful atmosphere and cultural heritage, the shrine provides a unique glimpse into Japan’s Shinto traditions.

Shimizu Shrine - Shimizu town, Hokkaido Prefecture

Origins and Early History

Shimizu Shrine’s origins date back to 1900, when a signpost along the old national highway in Pekerebetsu marked a site for distant worship of Amaterasu Omikami. Over time, a small shrine was built, gradually developing into a central spiritual hub for the surrounding communities.

Shimizu Shrine's torii gate

清水神社

Expansion and Official Recognition

In 1917, the main hall and worship hall were constructed at the current address, 2-2 Kita 3-jo Nishi 2-chome. By 1921, a branch of the deity was enshrined from Sapporo Shrine, extending the shrine’s spiritual reach to Shimizu, Pekerebetsu, and Shimosahoro. The shrine received official approval in 1927, was designated a village shrine, and recognized as a Shinsenheihakuryokyushin shrine. By 1954, it became a certified religious corporation.

Shimizu Shrine's Main Hall

Inside Shimizu Shrine's Main Hall

Modern Shrine Building and Architecture

Due to aging structures, a construction support committee was formed in 1975, and in 1976, a new shrine was completed in the Shinmei architectural style, crafted from wood and topped with copper sheets. A relocation ceremony marked the completion of this beautiful structure, which remains a centerpiece for worshippers today.

Shimizu Shrine Grounds

Shimizu Shrine's information board

Shimizu Shrine's chozuya

Akiba Shrine

Akiba Shrine has its own komainu pair

Shimizu Shrine's chozubachi

Deities and Community Role

Shimizu Shrine enshrines Okunitama-no-kami, Onamuchi-no-kami, and Sukunahiko-no-kami, serving approximately 2,000 households. Beyond its religious function, the shrine acts as a community hub where locals gather for festivals, prayers, and seasonal ceremonies.

Shimizu Shrine's komainu pairs

Shimizu Shrine's komainu pair near the main torii gate

Shimizu Shrine's komainu pair near the main hall

Team Nicerio visits Shimizu Shrine

My family and I visited Shimizu Shrine for the first time on November 3, 2023, the opening day of our three-day Culture Day Road Trip. This marked my 732nd day in Japan as an ALT under the JET Programme. Shimizu Shrine was the first shrine we explored that day, and as part of our Hokkaido 179 travel goal, we made it a point to visit the main shrine of every municipality we explored for the first time. During our visit, we offered prayers and paid our respects, taking a moment to connect with the local culture and spiritual traditions.

Shimizu Shrine Admission Fee.

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

Shimizu Shrine Operating Hours

The Shimizu Shrine grounds are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, allowing visitors to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere at any time. The shrine office, however, is open from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Please note that there may be times when the priest is unavailable, so it might not always be possible to receive a goshuin during your visit.

Why Visit Shimizu Shrine?

Shimizu Shrine is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a blend of history, culture, and tranquility in Hokkaido. The shrine offers a serene atmosphere perfect for reflection and spiritual connection, set amidst beautifully maintained grounds. Visitors can admire the Shinmei-style architecture, explore a site that has been an important community hub for over a century, and witness traditional Shinto rituals.

Getting to Shimizu Shrine:

From Tokachi-Shimizu Station, Shimizu Shrine is accessible on foot. It is around 1.3 kilometers away from the station.

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