Sapporo: Hokkaido Shrine Tour with Rituals, History & Sweets
Active
1h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Explore the heart of Hokkaido's spirituality and history at Hokkaido Shrine, the region's most significant Shinto shrine. Begin your journey in Maruyama Park, passing through the iconic torii gate into a tranquil setting. Visit the Kaitaku Shrine, where you'll learn about Hokkaido's pioneering past while participating in a temizu water purification ritual. Experience the unique Ezo Squirrel Omikuji fortune-drawing, and unwind at Jingu Chaya with Fuku-Rei Mochi, a delightful rice cake symbolizing good fortune. This immersive tour offers a blend of cultural insights and traditional practices, making it an enriching experience for history enthusiasts and spiritual seekers alike.
- Discover Hokkaido Shrine and its historical significance
- Participate in traditional rituals and learn from an expert guide
- Enjoy unique local experiences like the Ezo Squirrel Omikuji
- Taste the famous Fuku-Rei Mochi in a serene shrine environment
Available options
Sapporo: Hokkaido Shrine Tour with Rituals, History & Sweets
What's included
Omikuji experience
Tasting of mochi sweets
Guided tour of Hokkaido Shrine
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Maruyama Park is a lush natural oasis west of central Sapporo, home to native trees, birds, and squirrels. It is a beloved spot for locals, especially during cherry blossom season, and serves as the gateway to Hokkaido Shrine. Passing through its large torii gate, visitors step from city life into a tranquil, spiritual landscape.
2
Founded in 1869, Hokkaido Shrine enshrines the deities of pioneering and later Emperor Meiji, symbolizing the spirit of Hokkaido’s development. Within its grounds is Kaitaku Shrine, honoring the island’s early settlers. Visitors can take part in purification rituals, draw the unique Ezo Squirrel fortune, and enjoy traditional sweets at the historic Jingu Chaya.
What's not included
Private transportation
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
The meeting point is in front of the Maruyama Park Center. Your guide will be waiting with a yellow sign. Please refer to the map for details.
About Sapporo
Sapporo, the capital of Hokkaido, is known for its stunning winter landscapes, vibrant cultural scene, and delicious seafood. The city hosts the famous Sapporo Snow Festival and offers a unique blend of modern urban life and traditional Japanese charm.
Top Attractions
Sapporo Beer Museum
Learn about the history of beer in Japan and the Sapporo Beer brand. The museum offers beer tasting and a chance to see the brewing process.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free entry, beer tasting costs vary
Odori Park
A large park in the heart of Sapporo, known for its beautiful gardens, fountains, and the famous Sapporo Snow Festival held here in February.
Nature
1-3 hours depending on the season
Free
Sapporo TV Tower
A landmark of Sapporo, offering panoramic views of the city from its observation deck. The tower is illuminated at night, creating a beautiful sight.
Architecture
1 hour
¥790 for adults
Must-Try Local Dishes
Sapporo Ramen
A rich, miso-based ramen with corn, butter, and pork. A must-try local specialty.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains pork, can be made vegetarian with modifications.
Soup Curry
A spicy, flavorful curry soup with vegetables and meat, a Hokkaido specialty.
Lunch/Dinner
Can be made vegetarian or vegan.
Genghis Khan
Grilled lamb or mutton, a popular dish in Hokkaido, often cooked on a dome-shaped grill.
Dinner
Contains lamb, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.
Popular Activities
Skiing in Niseko
Snowboarding in Rusutsu
Hiking in Daisetsuzan National Park
Onsen (hot spring) bathing
Strolling through Odori Park
Shopping in Tanukikoji
Visiting the Sapporo Beer Museum
Exploring Otaru's historic district
Best Time to Visit
December to February (Winter) and July to August (Summer)
Winter is ideal for snow festivals and skiing, while summer offers pleasant weather for outdoor activities and festivals.
Winter: -5°C to 0°C, Summer: 18°C to 25°C
Winter: 23°F to 32°F, Summer: 64°F to 77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Japanese
- Widely spoken: English, Chinese, Korean
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere
Currency
Japanese Yen (JPY)
Time Zone
GMT+9
Electricity
100VV, 50/60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Very safe
Sapporo is a very safe city with low crime rates. However, petty theft and scams can occur, especially in tourist areas.
Important Precautions:
- • Be cautious of your belongings in crowded areas.
- • Use licensed taxis and agreed-upon fares.
- • Be wary of strangers offering help or services, especially in tourist areas.
Getting there
By air
- New Chitose Airport • 40 km from city center
By train
Sapporo Station
By bus
Sapporo Station Bus Terminal, Susukino Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
The subway system is clean, efficient, and easy to navigate. It consists of three lines: Namboku, Tozai, and Tohoku-Johetsu.
Taxis
Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, DiDi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Susukino
Odori
Tanukikoji
Day trips
Niseko
110 km from Sapporo • Full day or overnight
A popular ski resort known for its powder snow, Niseko offers excellent skiing and snowboarding in winter, and outdoor activities in summer.
Otaru
30 km from Sapporo • Half day or full day
A charming port city known for its historic buildings, canals, and fresh seafood. Otaru offers a mix of history, culture, and scenic views.
Furano
140 km from Sapporo • Full day or overnight
Known for its lavender fields in summer and skiing in winter, Furano offers a mix of natural beauty and outdoor activities.
Festivals
Sapporo Snow Festival • Early February
Sapporo Beer Festival • Late July to early August
Yosakoi Soran Festival • Early June
Pro tips
- Visit the Sapporo Beer Museum for a unique beer tasting experience.
- Try Sapporo's famous ramen at Ramen Republic or other local ramen shops.
- Explore the historic Tanukikoji Shopping Arcade for souvenirs and street food.
- Experience the Sapporo Snow Festival if visiting in February.
- Take a day trip to Otaru for its charming canals and fresh seafood.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
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