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Hokumon Shrine
Get the northernmost goshuin (shrine stamp) in Japan!
Hokumon Shrine stands on an elevated spot overlooking Wakkanai Port and holds the distinction of being the northernmost shrine in Japan with a resident priest. Its origins trace back to 1785, when Denbei Murayama, a contractor of the Matsumae domain, enshrined Amaterasu Omikami as a guardian deity for the northern gate while stationed in Sōya. He established a small shrine and named it Sōya Daijingu. Today, the enshrined deities are Amaterasu Omikami, Takemikazuchi-no-Kami, and Kotoshironushi-no-Kami, and the shrine is known for bringing blessings such as a good harvest, safe voyages, business prosperity, matchmaking, and safe childbirth.
One of the shrine’s unique draws is its local omikuji (fortune slip) called the “Ezo Mikuji”, themed after Hokkaido specialties. At Hokumon Shrine, the omikuji comes in the form of a cute papier-mâché crab, known as the “I-Kani mo Ii Mikuji” (a fun play on words meaning “a really good fortune”). You scoop your omikuji with a net, and the fortunes are written in the Hokkaido dialect—making it a fun and memorable keepsake.
A must-get item is the goshuin (shrine stamp) featuring the official mark of “Japan’s Northernmost Shrine.” The shrine also offers original goshuin books and stamp pouches, perfect for commemorating your visit.
Every year on July 5, the Hokumon Shrine Grand Festival is held, drawing locals and visitors alike to celebrate this historic northern sanctuary.
Highlights
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The northernmost shrine in Japan with a resident priest.
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Offers sweeping views of Wakkanai Port.
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Features the local Hokkaido-themed omikuji, Ezo Mikuji.
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Known for its goshuin (shrine stamp) marked as the northernmost in Japan.
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Hosts the annual Hokumon Shrine Grand Festival on July 5.
Photos
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Enjoy panoramic views of Wakkanai Port from the shrine grounds
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The northernmost shrine in Japan with a resident priest
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A rare sight unique to this shrine— a female komainu (guardian dog) holding her pup in front
Official FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions have been vetted and answered directly by each listing.
Q
Are there any pamphlets or materials in foreign languages? (If so, which languages?)
A brief English-language history is available for international visitors requesting a goshuin. English descriptions of the shrine's omamori (charms) are also provided.
Q
Do you offer goshuin (shrine stamps)?
Yes. Both handwritten and kirie (paper-cut) style goshuin are available, including stamps for the two smaller shrines on the grounds—Miyoshi Shrine and Inari Shrine. Clear-style goshuin, original goshuin books, and pouches are also offered. Electronic payment is accepted.
Q
Is there parking available?
Yes. In summer, there are about 20 spaces near the main hall, and around 10 spaces are available in front of the shrine office year-round.
Q
Are coin lockers available?
Not available.
Reviews
Details
- Name in Japanese
- 北門神社
- Postal Code
- 097-0022
- Address
- 1-1-21 Chuo, Wakkanai City, Hokkaido
- Telephone
- 0162-22-2944
- Closed
- Open every day
- Business Hours
- Free to visit any time, Goshuin(red stamp) application 9:00am - 5:00pm, From November to March 9:00am - 4:30pm
- Admission
- Free
- Access
- From JR Wakkanai Station, take a bus and get off at “Jinja-mae” (Shrine-mae) bus stop. It’s a 3-minute walk from there.
- Official Website
- Official Website (Japanese)