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[winter][ Hokkaido Otaru City]Otaru Tenguyama Shrine First shrine visit spot

winter

Otaru Tenguyama Shrine is located in Otaru, Hokkaido, and is a historic shrine whose main deity is Sarutahiko Okami, a god from Japanese mythology. Sarutahiko Okami is known as the god of opening the way, and is deeply revered by people who visit to pray for a new beginning in life or a safe journey. The shrine is located near the top of Tenguyama, which is 532 meters above sea level, and is also popular as a scenic spot where you can see the whole of Otaru city and its surroundings. As its name suggests, Tenguyama is a place where the legend of Tengu lives on, and it has been considered a mountain that has had a special meaning for local people since ancient times. As a symbol of this, Otaru Tenguyama Shrine is deeply rooted in the culture and history of the region. During the New Year's visit to the shrine, the area around the shrine is covered in snow, and the experience of praying for the new year in a fantastic winter landscape is exceptional. In addition, Tengu masks and stone statues of Tengu are scattered around the shrine grounds, providing a special atmosphere for worshippers. These Tengu motifs are one of the unique attractions of the shrine, inviting visitors into a world of mystical stories. Furthermore, the wish to pave the way with the help of Sarutahiko Okami is a great encouragement for those who are striving to achieve their goals in work or life. Otaru Tenguyama Shrine is not just a tourist destination, but also plays an important role as a spiritual anchor for the local people.

What is Otaru Tenguyama Shrine? Its History and Attractions

Otaru Tenguyama Shrine is located in Otaru, Hokkaido, and is a historic shrine whose main deity is Sarutahiko Okami, a god from Japanese mythology. Sarutahiko Okami is known as the god of opening the way, and is deeply revered by people who visit to pray for a new beginning in life or a safe journey. The shrine is located near the top of Tenguyama, which is 532 meters above sea level, and is also popular as a scenic spot where you can see the whole of Otaru city and its surroundings. As its name suggests, Tenguyama is a place where the legend of Tengu lives on, and it has been considered a mountain that has had a special meaning for local people since ancient times. As a symbol of this, Otaru Tenguyama Shrine is deeply rooted in the culture and history of the region. During the New Year's visit to the shrine, the area around the shrine is covered in snow, and the experience of praying for the new year in a fantastic winter landscape is exceptional. In addition, Tengu masks and stone statues of Tengu are scattered around the shrine grounds, providing a special atmosphere for worshippers. These Tengu motifs are one of the unique attractions of the shrine, inviting visitors into a world of mystical stories. Furthermore, the wish to pave the way with the help of Sarutahiko Okami is a great encouragement for those who are striving to achieve their goals in work or life. Otaru Tenguyama Shrine is not just a tourist destination, but also plays an important role as a spiritual anchor for the local people.

Reasons why it's perfect for a New Year's visit: Spectacular views and blessings

Otaru Tenguyama Shrine is especially recommended as a spot for New Year's visits. One of the reasons is that it is located at a high altitude, making it a perfect location for watching the first sunrise of the year. Every New Year's Day, many worshippers visit Tenguyama early in the morning to enjoy the beautiful sunrise that symbolizes the beginning of the new year. Especially on clear days, you can see the cityscape of Otaru, Ishikari Bay, and even the distant mountains, and the view leaves a strong impression on the hearts of those who visit. In addition, special goshuin and omamori are available for New Year's visits, which will become special memories for worshippers. At the shrine, many worshippers pray for the power of Sarutahiko Okami to open the way and brighten the path they should take. This is a very meaningful experience for those who have new year's goals and resolutions in their hearts. In addition, it is common to access the shrine by ropeway, and this journey itself will be a special memory that is typical of Hokkaido in winter. The experience of climbing the mountain while looking at the snow-covered scenery is also an impressive one for tourists. In addition, on New Year's Day, local volunteers serve hot tea and there are stalls selling local specialties, creating a friendly atmosphere for visitors. In this way, Otaru Tenguyama Shrine is popular with many people as a New Year's shrine spot that combines both a spectacular view and good fortune.

How to access and points to note when visiting

Access to Otaru Tenguyama Shrine is very convenient for tourists. From Otaru city, take a bus or taxi to the Tenguyama Ropeway station, and then take the ropeway to the top of the mountain. The ropeway operates even in winter, so you can enjoy the snow-covered scenery while traveling. After getting off the ropeway, it is about a 10-minute walk to the shrine. In winter, the road surface becomes slippery, so we recommend that you prepare cold weather gear and non-slip shoes. There are information boards in the shrine grounds, so even first-time visitors can visit without getting lost. Especially during the New Year's visit season, local staff will guide visitors, so you can pray for the new year with peace of mind. There are also parking lots around the shrine, so you can visit by car. However, it is very crowded on New Year's Day, so it is recommended to arrive early. When visiting, first purify yourself at the temizuya, then proceed to the worship hall and pray with the ritual of two bows, two claps, one bow. Another fun thing to do in the new year is to buy fortune slips and amulets. At Otaru Tenguyama Shrine, amulets with designs related to opening roads are popular, and especially those praying for safe travels and support for new challenges are attracting attention. With such easy access and great points for worship, Otaru Tenguyama Shrine is the perfect destination for your first visit of the year.

[New Year's Shrine Visit Spot]Other recommended spots

Hokkaido Shrine First shrine visit spot

Hokkaido Sapporo City

Approximately 10 minutes walk from Maruyama Koen Station on the Tozai Subway Line

Otaru Tenguyama Shrine First shrine visit spot

Hokkaido Otaru City

1 minute walk from the bus stop "Tenguyama Ropeway"

Sapporo Fushimi Inari Shrine First shrine visit spot

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Approximately 15 minutes walk from the Sapporo City Tram "Nishisen 14-jo" stop

Hakodate Hachiman Shrine First shrine visit spot

Hokkaido Hakodate City

Approximately 8 minutes walk from Yachigashira Station

Odori Park First shrine visit spot

Hokkaido Sapporo City

Approximately 5 minutes walk from Odori Subway Station (Tozai Line, Namboku Line, Toho Line)

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