Hokkaido Jingu Tongu
Meet Sapporo's historic stone guardians of love and safe childbirth
A peaceful urban retreat home to Sapporo’s oldest stone guardian lion-dog statues. Discover blessings for love and safe childbirth while exploring a shrine connected to the city’s pioneering history.
Nestled among the modern buildings of central Sapporo, Hokkaido Jingu Tongu offers a quiet escape from the city's bustle. Established in 1878 as a winter worship site for Hokkaido Jingu, the shrine preserves an important part of Sapporo’s heritage. The current main hall, rebuilt in 1910 using timber from the former Sapporo Shrine, reflects a century of history and quiet dignity.
A highlight of the shrine is its two pairs of komainu (guardian lion-dog statues). The pair carved from Sapporo soft stone in 1890 is considered the oldest in the city. Local tradition says that touching the statue near the torii gate brings success in love, while touching the one near the worship hall brings blessings for safe childbirth and fertility.
The shrine becomes especially lively during its Annual Festival on the third Sunday of September, when around 400 participants carry a mikoshi (portable shrine) through the streets. Food stalls and traditional performances add to the festive atmosphere.
Whether visiting for quiet reflection or local traditions, Hokkaido Jingu Tongu offers a memorable glimpse into Sapporo’s history, faith, and community spirit.
- * Please note that the text shown on this page includes machine translations.
- Nearest airports
General Information
- Postal code
- 〒060-0052
- Address
- 北海道札幌市中央区南2条東3丁目10
- Telephone Number
- 011-221-1084
- Open
- The shrine is open 24 hours a day.
Amulets and prayers are available from 9:00 to 17:00 (until 16:00 in winter). - Car Park
- 7 spaces, free
- Directions
- ●On foot: About 3 minutes from Bus Center-mae subway station
- Website
* Information on facilities is subject to change. Please check each official website for the latest information.
