Top Shrines for First Prayer 2026 in Sapporo
Visiting a shrine during the first three days of the year is a classic Japanese tradition. This custom is called Hatsumode and remains very popular today. You will find many beautiful shrines for first prayer 2026 in Sapporo to visit during your holiday. People pray for health, safety, and success throughout the upcoming winter season of 2026.
Hokkaido Jingu: The Ultimate Hatsumode Spot
Hokkaido Jingu is the most famous shrine in the city for your New Year holiday. The shrine sits within the beautiful and snowy grounds of Maruyama Park. Most locals visit this specific site for their first prayer of the year. The atmosphere is very traditional and feels holy during the cold January days.
During the first days of January 2026, the shrine grounds become very busy with visitors. You should expect long lines at the main hall during the peak afternoon hours. People wait patiently to offer coins and say their prayers for the new year. It is a great place to witness authentic Japanese culture in action.
Many food stalls set up near the entrance during this festive New Year time. You can try warm snacks like takoyaki or grilled corn from the local vendors. These stalls provide a festive feeling to the snowy and white shrine grounds. Check out this guide for visiting Hokkaido Shrine during the winter holidays.
You can also buy lucky charms called omamori at the various wooden stalls. These charms offer protection for various parts of your daily life in 2026. Many people also buy omikuji paper strips to see their fortune for the year. It is a fun way to predict your luck while enjoying the snow.
Sapporo Gokoku Shrine: Peace and Success
Sapporo Gokoku Shrine is located near the south end of the popular Nakajima Park. It is a peaceful place dedicated to those who served the country in the past. Many people visit here to pray for world peace and personal safety in 2026. It is very easy to reach by using the local Sapporo subway lines.
The shrine grounds are quite spacious and look beautiful under the heavy winter snow. You can enjoy a quiet walk before reaching the main prayer area near the hall. This shrine is often less crowded than the popular Hokkaido Jingu site. It is perfect for those who prefer a calm and quiet spiritual experience.
You can see traditional architecture and large stone lanterns throughout the entire shrine site. The priests often perform special ceremonies during the first week of the New Year period. These rituals are fascinating to watch from a respectful distance in the snow. It is truly a hidden gem for travelers visiting Hokkaido in winter.
After your visit, you can explore the rest of Nakajima Park located nearby. The park features a frozen pond and several historic buildings for you to see. It is a great spot for winter photography during your trip to Sapporo. Make sure to wear warm boots for walking on the snowy paths.
Sapporo Fushimi Inari: Iconic Red Torii Gates
This shrine is famous for its stunning row of twenty-seven bright red torii gates. It is a branch of the world-famous Fushimi Inari shrine located in Kyoto. The bright red gates look amazing against the white Hokkaido snow in January 2026. It is a very popular spot for photographers and social media fans.
The shrine is located on a scenic hillside overlooking the main Sapporo city area. You will need to walk up a slight incline to reach the prayer hall. The view from the top is definitely worth the short climb in the snow. It offers a unique perspective of the city during the winter months.
People come here to pray for good luck in business and their personal relationships. The deity of this shrine is known for granting prosperity to all visitors. You can write your deepest wishes on wooden plaques called ema at the shrine. This is a common tradition during the Sapporo New Year events 2026 season.
Getting to this shrine requires a short bus or taxi ride from the center. It is located in a quiet residential neighborhood on the edge of the city. This makes the visit feel very authentic and local for every traveler. It is one of the most scenic Sapporo Travel destinations for January.
Hassamu Shrine: Shrines for first prayer 2026 in Sapporo
Hassamu Shrine is one of the oldest spiritual sites in the entire Sapporo city area. It has a long history that dates back many generations in the Hokkaido region. This location is one of the top shrines for first prayer 2026 in Sapporo. Locals love its friendly and welcoming atmosphere during the cold winter weeks.
The shrine is located near the Hassamu-Chuo Station for very easy train access. You can reach it quickly using the JR train lines from Sapporo Station. This makes it a convenient stop for travelers staying near the main transport hubs. The surrounding area has many small shops for you to explore after praying.
During the New Year, the shrine hosts several traditional events for all the visitors. You might see local performances or hear traditional Japanese music playing in the air. It feels like a true community gathering for the people in the neighborhood. You can experience the local side of the city at this historic site.
Visitors can also enjoy warm amazake, which is a sweet and traditional rice drink. This drink is often served at shrines to keep people warm during Hatsumode. It is non-alcoholic and very popular during the cold and snowy winter months. It is a delicious part of the New Year ritual in Japan.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to visit shrines for Hatsumode?
The best time is early morning on January 2nd or 3rd to avoid crowds. Most people visit on January 1st, leading to very long wait times. Check the public transport hours to plan your early morning trip effectively.
Is there an entrance fee for these shrines in Sapporo?
No, there is no entrance fee to visit these shrines for your first prayer. However, it is customary to offer a small coin at the main prayer hall. Most people use a five-yen coin for good luck during their visit.
What should I eat during a New Year shrine visit?
You should try traditional snacks like yakisoba or mochi from the outdoor food stalls. Many shrines also offer warm tea or sweet amazake to help you stay warm. Explore more traditional New Year food options available throughout the city.
How should I dress for a winter shrine visit in Sapporo?
You must wear heavy winter clothing including a warm coat, gloves, and a hat. Temperatures in Sapporo often drop below freezing during the first week of January. For official updates, visit the City of Sapporo website for weather alerts.
Visiting shrines for first prayer 2026 in Sapporo is a wonderful winter experience. You can enjoy beautiful scenery, delicious food, and rich Japanese traditions in the snow. Plan your visit early to make the most of your New Year holiday. May your 2026 be filled with health, happiness, and great travel adventures.