Hokkaido Shrine Tongu Sapporo
A tranquil Shinto shrine in Sapporo, offering a serene escape with unique seasonal art and a genuine local feel.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Sakura petals arranged beautifully
Hokkaido Shrine Tongu Sapporo
Best Time
Sakura petals arranged beautifully
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A tranquil Shinto shrine in Sapporo, offering a serene escape with unique seasonal art and a genuine local feel.
"Hokkaido Shrine Tongu feels like a hidden gem quietly tucked into the city, offering a more intimate and serene atmosphere."
🎯 Free Entry & Calm Vibes
Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and free entry. It's a great spot for quiet reflection.
🌸 Sakura Heart Art
Visit in spring to see the beautiful heart shapes made from fallen sakura petals.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Tranquil Shrine Grounds
Experience a serene atmosphere with locals and find a moment of calm away from the city's energy.
Guard Dog Statues
Admire the traditional stone statues of guard dogs, a common feature in Shinto shrines.
Sakura Heart Art
Witness the unique creativity of caretakers who artfully arrange fallen sakura petals into heart shapes.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Serenity
Winter Wonderland Potential
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Entry & Calm Vibes
Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and free entry. It's a great spot for quiet reflection.
🌸 Sakura Heart Art
Visit in spring to see the beautiful heart shapes made from fallen sakura petals.
❄️ Winter Beauty
Hokkaido in winter is stunning; the shrine offers a serene, snowy escape.
📸 Photography Opportunities
Capture the unique charm, especially the creative sakura arrangements.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Entry & Calm Vibes
Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and free entry. It's a great spot for quiet reflection.
🌸 Sakura Heart Art
Visit in spring to see the beautiful heart shapes made from fallen sakura petals.
❄️ Winter Beauty
Hokkaido in winter is stunning; the shrine offers a serene, snowy escape.
📸 Photography Opportunities
Capture the unique charm, especially the creative sakura arrangements.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Hokkaido Shrine Tongu to be a serene and intimate escape within Sapporo, often appreciating its tranquil atmosphere and the genuine local feel. The creative sakura petal art in spring and the peaceful ambiance, especially in winter snow, are frequently praised. While generally a positive experience, some may find it less grand than larger, more famous shrines.
"Hokkaido Shrine Tongu feels like a hidden gem quietly tucked into the city. Unlike the main shrine, it offers a more intimate and serene atmosphere, perfect for reflection. You’ll often find locals stopping by, making it feel like a genuine part of daily Sapporo life."
Sierra Charlie
"The solemn and tranquil atmosphere of the shrine made me feel very calm. As a tourist, visiting this place was a wonderful experience. Hokkaido in the snow is beautiful, and I think this place is definitely worth a visit.
It’s free entry."
Collin Lee
"A habit of mine to visit different shrines while traveling, oddly, the weather was quite creepy for my visit. A blizzard occurs right before I set my way to the shrine, and it stops as soon as I complete my prayers.
Typical shrine in the city of sapporo, lovely and beautiful"
Luke L'sk
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Hokkaido Shrine Tongu is conveniently located near Nijo Fish Market in Sapporo. You can easily reach it by public transport, with many visitors finding it a pleasant walk from the market area.
While not directly at a train station, it's a short distance from major Sapporo stations. Consider a bus or a walk from nearby stations like Odori or Susukino.
From Susukino, you can enjoy a walk through the city or take a short bus ride. The area is well-connected, making access straightforward.
Limited parking might be available, but it's generally recommended to use public transportation due to potential congestion in the city center.
Yes, it's very close to Nijo Fish Market, making it easy to combine visits.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Hokkaido Shrine Tongu is free, making it an accessible attraction for all visitors.
Shrines typically do not have strict closing hours for the grounds, but the main buildings and shops may have specific operating times. It's best to visit during daylight hours for the full experience.
Yes, there is a shop within the shrine complex where you can purchase lucky charms and other souvenirs.
Photography is generally allowed on the shrine grounds, but always be respectful of worshippers and any posted restrictions, especially inside prayer halls.
Yes, restrooms are available within the shrine building for visitors' convenience.
📸 📸 Photography
The areas with the sakura petal art in spring are particularly photogenic. The torii gate and the main shrine building also offer classic shots. 
The sakura art is typically created after the petals fall in spring. Aim for a clear day with soft light for the best results.
You can photograph the charms from the display, but it's polite to ask permission before taking close-ups of items being sold or held by others.
Drone usage is generally prohibited at most shrines and temples in Japan to ensure peace and safety. Always check local regulations.
A standard lens is versatile for capturing the grounds. For detailed shots of charms or art, a macro lens can be useful.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's a great opportunity to introduce children to Japanese culture and Shinto traditions in a low-pressure environment. The free entry makes it an economical choice for families. Remember to keep an eye on younger children and ensure they are respectful of the sacred space.
📸 Photographers
However, the real magic for photographers often lies in the seasonal displays. In spring, the meticulously arranged sakura petals into heart shapes are a must-capture subject, offering a romantic and artistic angle.
+1 In winter, the snow-covered grounds create a serene and atmospheric scene, perfect for moody shots. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Charm of Sapporo's Shrines
During winter, the shrine can be particularly enchanting. Snowfall transforms the grounds, creating a serene and picturesque setting.
Visitors often highlight the unique touches, such as the creative arrangements of fallen sakura petals into heart shapes by the shrine caretakers.
Omamori: Lucky Charms and Their Significance
+1The designs of the omamori often reflect the shrine's identity or the current year's zodiac animal. For instance, the 'Kirin' (mythical creature) charm and the 'Kirin' omamori are popular, as are charms featuring the year's zodiac.
The creativity extends to special edition charms, like the 'Summer Festival Omamori' with its translucent paper and wind chime motifs, embodying the spirit of the season. Collecting omamori can be a meaningful part of visiting shrines, serving as a tangible reminder of your travels and the blessings sought. The intricate designs and the spiritual significance attached to each charm make them popular souvenirs.
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