Discover Otaru’s Beloved Shrines: History and Festivals Rooted in the Community
Otaru, once a flourishing port town, is home to many shrines dedicated to deities of the sea, safe voyages, agriculture, and commerce. Influences from settlers in the 18th and 19th centuries also led to the establishment of Inari shrines—famous for honoring the spirit of agriculture and prosperity.
Let’s explore some of the most well-known shrines in Otaru and the traditional festivals that continue to bring the community together.
Note: Festival dates and contents may vary depending on the year and weather. Please check for the latest updates before visiting.
◆ Sumiyoshi Shrine – A Symbol of Otaru’s Spiritual Heritag
Sumiyoshi Shrine is regarded as the guardian shrine of Otaru. Established over 150 years ago, it’s one of the city's most important religious sites. It enshrines protective sea deities, believed to safeguard sailors and bring blessings for poetry, childbirth, and peace.
The shrine also features one of the largest wooden shrine offices in Hokkaido, recognized as a city-designated historical building.
Every July 14–16, the Sumiyoshi Grand Festival draws large crowds. Highlights include:
・A massive traditional portable shrine (Mikoshi) procession
・Sacred Kagura dance performances
・Illuminated Torii gates and flower-adorned purification basins
Otaru Sumiyoshi Shrine
2-5-1 Suminoe, Otaru
◆ Suitengu Shrine – Scenic Views and Spring Blossoms
Overlooking Otaru Port, Suitengu Shrine has stood since 1859. It’s beloved for its panoramic views and cherry blossoms in spring. The shrine honors deities connected to water, agriculture, and creation, reflecting the city’s maritime and farming roots.
The annual Suitengu Festival (June 14–16) fills the approach with lively stalls, and the nearby Hanazono Ginza shopping street joins in with special events known as the Suiten Market.
Suitengu 3-1
Aioi-cho, Otaru
◆ Ryugu Shrine – A Shrine of the Sea and Success
Ryugu Shrine, founded in 1876, is dedicated to ancient sea gods, as well as other deities related to agriculture and prosperity. It gained national attention in 2010 when a visit by former Prime Minister Taro Aso was followed by his political promotion—earning the shrine a reputation as a place of good fortune and career success.
The Ryugu Shrine Festival (June 20–22) is a major local event and part of Otaru’s "Three Great Festivals."
Ryugu Shrine
3-22-11 Inaho, Otaru
◆ Otaru Inari Shrine – Climbing the 'Slope of Encouragement'
Located atop a steep 24-degree hill known as the “Slope of Encouragement”, Otaru Inari Shrine dates back to 1690. It honors deities of agriculture, prosperity, and learning, including the spirit of Sugawara no Michizane, a scholar now worshipped as the god of academics.
As a branch of Kyoto’s Fushimi Inari Shrine, it’s part of a nationwide network of over 30,000 Inari shrines. The surrounding forest is home to some of the northernmost chestnut trees in Japan, especially beautiful during the autumn foliage season.
The annual Temiya Festival in June features food stalls, a mochi-throwing ceremony, and the 100-person mikoshi parade.
Otaru Inari Shrine
38-1 Suehiro-cho, Otaru
◆ More Shrines to Explore in Otaru
Other lesser-known but fascinating shrines include Shiomigaoka Shrine and Hariusu Inari Shrine, both rich in history and set in scenic surroundings. Whether you’re seeking spiritual guidance or just a peaceful stroll through history, Otaru’s shrines are well worth a visit.
Before attending any festivals, we recommend checking the most recent information online or with local tourism offices.
Notes on Terminology
・Mikoshi (portable shrine): A sacred structure carried during festivals to bring the spirit of the deity into the streets.
・Kagura: Traditional music and dance performances dedicated to the gods.
・Torii: The iconic red gate marking the entrance to a Shinto shrine.
