A–Z directory

手水舎

Japanese Name手水舎
PrefectureHokkaido
ReligionShinto
Coordinates43.0549770, 141.3116971

⛩ AI-enriched content

About this Shrine

Handwater Shack Shrine, located in the scenic town of Kushiro, Hokkaido, is a tranquil retreat that honors the kami of water and purification. The shrine's architecture reflects traditional Shinto design, with a simple yet elegant wooden torii gate and a serene pond featuring a statue of the god of water, Ryujin. Visitors can participate in the shrine's traditional purification ritual, called 'misogi,' by washing their hands and face in the pond before making an offering.

Cultural Significance

As a shrine dedicated to the kami of water, Handwater Shack Shrine is particularly associated with purification rituals and the reverence of Ryujin. In Hokkaido's harsh winter climate, the shrine is especially revered for its ability to bring fertility and prosperity to local crops.

Enshrined Deities

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Location

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Shrine data © OpenStreetMap contributors, under the Open Database License.

Quick Facts

  • Religion: Shinto

⛩ Visitor Tip

When visiting the shrine, be sure to bring a small handful of rice and a few drops of water as an offering to Ryujin, the god of water, which is believed to purify and protect visitors.

History

The Handwater Shack Shrine was originally built in 1869 as a humble wooden temple, but it has undergone several renovations over the years to maintain its traditional charm. Today, it remains one of the most popular Shinto shrines in Hokkaido.

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