Yūbari-jinja, Shinto shrine in Japan
Yūbari-jinja is a Shinto shrine in Yubari, Hokkaido, built in the Shinmei-zukuri architectural style with simple wooden structures and a large torii gate marking the entrance. The shrine honors several deities: Ōyamatsumi-no-kami for mountains, Daikoku-myōjin for prosperity, and Sugawara no Michizane for learning and wisdom.
The shrine was founded in 1894 during Japan's Meiji period, originally named Togawa Shrine, to protect miners working in the active coal operations. A major fire destroyed all buildings in 1922, leading to reconstruction in 1923 under the new name Yūbari-jinja.
The shrine draws its name from the town and the nearby Yūbari River, embodying local identity and place connection. It serves as a gathering space where residents practice traditional prayers and maintain continuity with their community.
You can reach the shrine easily by bus from Yubari Station, which takes about 10 minutes, or by car from the nearby highway. The quiet surroundings and simple layout make it straightforward to walk around and observe traditional elements like wooden wish plaques and the sacred rope.
A Japanese navy ship named Yūbari was named after the town and carried a sacred object from the shrine on board for protection during its service. This uncommon connection to the military demonstrates how local shrines held significance extending beyond their immediate surroundings.
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