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Temples and Shrines in Sapporo, Japan

As a part of resources for visitors to Sapporo, we present this list of Shrines and Temples in Sapporo.

Sapporo has many spiritual spots, from old Shinto shrines to peaceful Buddhist temples and even some modern landmarks. Each place gives visitors a chance to enjoy local culture and find a quiet moment of reflection.

We begin by showing you the best temples and shrines within Sapporo City. Below that, we include a few shines that are nearby, just outside the city limits.

Major Temples and Shrines in Sapporo City

There are several well-known Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples in central Sapporo, mainly found in Chuo-ku, which is the central ward of Sapporo. The most famous shrines and temples in Sapporo are probably Hokkaido Shrine, Fushimi Inari Shrine, and Sapporo Gokoku Shrine.

Hokkaido Jingu Shrine (北海道神宮), in Chuo-ku, Sapporo

Highlights: Located inside Maruyama Park, famous for cherry and plum blossoms in spring, lush greenery in summer, and the lively Sapporo Festival every June
Cultural Note: A popular spot for hatsumode (New Year’s visits) and weddings. Goshuin (shrine stamps) are available
Access: About 15 minutes on foot from Maruyama-Koen Station (Tozai Subway Line)
Website: http://www.hokkaidojingu.or.jp/

Established in 1871 (originally called Sapporo Jinja), Hokkaido Jingu is Sapporo’s most important shrine. It enshrines Hokkaido’s pioneer deities along with Emperor Meiji.

As you’re visiting the shrine might be a good opportunity to try some of the best soup curry in Hokkaido at Okushiba-chan.

Sapporo Gokoku Shrine (札幌護国神社), in Chuo-ku, Sapporo

Highlights: The grounds feature a tranquil atmosphere, traditional shrine architecture, and seasonal ceremonies
Cultural Note: Visitors can collect goshuin stamps and attend annual festivals such as the Spring and Autumn Grand festivals
Access: Around 10 minutes by bus or taxi from central Sapporo
Website: https://sapporo-gokoku.jp/

A peaceful Shinto shrine located near Nakajima Park, dedicated to those who died in service of Japan.

Sapporo Fushimi Inari Shrine (札幌伏見稲荷神社), in Chuo-ku, Sapporo

Highlights: About 27 vibrant torii line the approach, creating a striking photo spot; it is believed to bring blessings for prosperity, career success, and love
Cultural Note: Many visitors draw koimikuji (love fortune slips) here
Access: 15 minutes by car from central Sapporo; also accessible by bus
Website: https://fushimiinari.or.jp/

Modeled after Kyoto’s famous Fushimi Inari Taisha, this shrine is known for its red torii gates.

Shinzenko-ji Temple (真然寺／真善光寺), in Chuo-ku, Sapporo

Highlights: A quiet Buddhist temple offering a calm atmosphere away from busy city streets
Cultural Note: Known as a place for prayer, reflection, and seasonal memorial services
Access: About 10 minutes on foot from Susukino or Odori Station
Website: s-zenkoj.com/

Shinzenko-ji is a small Buddhist temple serving the local community in central Sapporo. While less known to tourists, it provides a peaceful space for contemplation and offers insight into everyday religious life in the city.

Susukino Inari Daimyojin (すすきの稲荷大明神), in Chuo-ku, Sapporo

Highlights: A small urban shrine quietly located in the Susukino entertainment district, known for prayers related to business success, prosperity, and safety
Cultural Note: Frequently visited by local business owners and employees; offerings are often seen despite its compact size
Access: About 5 minutes on foot from Susukino Station (Namboku Subway Line)
Website: sapporo-jinja.com/susukinoinari2/

Susukino Inari Daimyojin is a modest Shinto shrine dedicated to Inari, the deity of commerce and prosperity. Its presence in the heart of Sapporo’s nightlife area reflects its close ties to local businesses and the surrounding community.

Honjin Tanuki Daimyojin Shrine (本陣狸大明神社), in Chuo-ku, Sapporo

Highlights: A unique shrine associated with Tanukikoji Shopping Street, featuring a tanuki (raccoon dog) deity symbolizing good fortune and thriving business
Cultural Note: Popular among shop owners and visitors to Tanukikoji; a distinctive example of modern urban folk belief
Access: Located along Tanukikoji Shopping Street, about 5 minutes on foot from Odori Station
Website: tanukikoji.or.jp/about-tanukikoji/#cnt4

Honjin Tanuki Daimyojin Shrine is a small but well-known local shrine that reflects Sapporo’s merchant culture. It is closely tied to the history and prosperity of Tanukikoji and is often visited while shopping in the area.

Suitengu Shrine (水天宮), in Chuo-ku, Sapporo

Highlights: A quiet retreat in the city, often visited by couples and families
Cultural Note: Popular among expectant mothers for prayers of safe delivery
Access: About 5 minutes on foot from Nakajima-Koen Station (Namboku Subway Line)
Website: https://hokkaidojinjacho.jp/

A small but beloved shrine near Nakajima Park, dedicated to safe childbirth, children’s health, and love.

Nishino Shrine (西野神社), in Nishi-ku, Sapporo

Highlights: Enshrines Toyotama-hime, Ugayafukiaezu, and Emperor Ojin (Hondawake), especially beautiful during spring and autumn
Cultural Note: Known as a “power spot” for matchmaking and safe childbirth. Goshuin stamps are also available
Access: About 15 minutes by car from central Sapporo
Website: https://nishinojinja.or.jp/

Founded in 1885, this shrine was built in the Shinmei-zukuri architectural style.

Sapporo Hachimangu (札幌八幡宮), in Chuo-ku, Sapporo

Highlights: Enshrines several kami, including Tenjin (Sugawara no Michizane), worshipped as the god of learning
Cultural Note: Students often visit to pray for success in exams and studies
Access: Around 20 minutes by car or bus from central Sapporo
Website: https://sapporohachimangu.com/

A relatively modern shrine, established in 1977, dedicated to Hachiman (god of war and protection).

Other Nearby Shrines and Temples in Hokkaido (within ~1 Hour from Sapporo)

There are also a few important shrines and temples located just outside Sapporo, which can be reached within about one hour by train or car. Some of the most notable Hokkaido shrines are Chitose Shrine, Ebetsu Shrine, and Otaru Suitengu Shrine.

Chitose Shrine (千歳神社), in Chitose City

Highlights: Famous for hatsumode (New Year’s first shrine visit) and yakubarai (warding off bad luck); the water here is sourced from nearby Lake Shikotsu, symbolizing purity
Cultural Note: Goshuin stamp books with crane motifs (a symbol of longevity) are popular among visitors
Access: About 10 minutes on foot from JR Chitose Station (around 30–40 minutes from Sapporo by train)
Website: https://chitosejinja.or.jp/

A Shinto shrine surrounded by tall trees, known as the spiritual heart of Chitose.

Ebetsu Shrine (江別神社), in Ebetsu City

Highlights: Seasonal festivals and local ceremonies draw many residents. In spring, cherry blossoms around the grounds make it a nice spot for hanami
Cultural Note: A quiet, community-focused shrine that gives a glimpse into local Hokkaidō traditions
Access: About 15 minutes from JR Ebetsu Station (roughly 25 minutes from Sapporo by train)
Website: http://park19.wakwak.com/~e-jinjya/

Built in 1891, this shrine is dedicated to multiple deities, including Okuninushi (god of nation-building and good relationships).

Otaru Suitengu Shrine (小樽水天宮), in Otaru City

Highlights: Dedicated to safe childbirth, children’s growth, and love; he view of Otaru Canal from the shrine is especially beautiful
Cultural Note: Known for its annual festival in early summer, featuring food stalls and traditional eventsAccess: About 20 minutes on foot from JR Otaru Station (around 35–40 minutes from Sapporo by train)
Website: https://hokkaidojinjacho.jp/%E6%B0%B4%E5%A4%A9%E5%AE%AE-2/

A Shinto shrine sitting on a hill with panoramic views over Otaru Port and the city.