Shiroishi Shrine (白石神社)

Flow of the course

About this spot

The shrine that represents Shiroishi Ward in Sapporo, known for receiving some of Hokkaido's largest crowds of New Year worshippers. On an ordinary summer morning it is quiet, and the tree-wrapped grounds are filled with cool air, so simply walking there settles the mind. Passing under the torii gate, purifying your hands at the water basin, and bowing toward the main hall is a small ceremony that stays with children. Beginning a day of water play by first asking for safety is a way of spending time unique to a town with its own local shrine nearby. The grounds are a comfortable size, so even small children can walk a full circuit without tiring.

Tips

Promise your children in advance to worship quietly and to bow before the torii gate, and the visit will go calmly. There are no shops in the grounds, so prepare drinks before you leave. It can be crowded on days with events, so follow the on-site guidance when parking. Kawashimo Park is only about ten minutes away by car, so leaving in the ten o'clock hour gives your morning plenty of room.

Best time to visit

About 50 minutes. The cool first hours of the morning are the most pleasant for walking

Access & map

〒003-0027 Hondori １４-chome Kita １−１２, Shiroishi-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido