A Japanese port city which has a rich heritage, Otaru is home to some captivating shrines that are well worth visiting during summer (as well as other times of the year) when you can enjoy laid-back exploration. What’s more, depending on the period, you can witness local festivals at these sites too.

Sumiyoshi Shrine
A well-known sacred site, the Sumiyoshi Shrine is the city’s guardian shrine and is around a 7-minute drive from properties like Grand Park Otaru, an ideal place to stay. Dating back more than 150 years, it features distinctive torii gates and one of Hokkaido’s largest wooden shrine offices. It also hosts the Sumiyoshi Grand Festival from the 14th to the 16th of July, where one can see a portable shrine procession, Kagura dance performances and purification basins with flowers.

Suitengu Shrine
Established in 1859, the Suitengu Shrine looks across the port and the Sea of Japan, offering lovely views. Located within easy reach of Otaru-based hotels in Hokkaido, Japan, this shrine honours deities linked to agriculture, water and creation, which harkens back to the farming and maritime roots of the city. In mid-June, you can also witness the Suitengu Festival with plenty of stalls nearby as well as events at the shopping street called Hanazono Ginza.

Ryugu Shrine
As part of your adventures, head to Inaho in Otaru, where you will find the Ryugu Shrine that you can add to your summer sightseeing itinerary. Dating back to 1876, it also honours deities linked to agriculture, the sea and prosperity. This shrine hosts one of the “Three Great Festivals” in Otaru from the 20th to the 22nd of June, which is a great time to visit because you will find a diverse array of stalls offering food and more along nearby Ryugu Street.

Takashima Inari Shrine  

Image by 雅人 福井 from Pixabay

In Otaru, shrines to visit also include the Takashima Inari Shrine, which goes all the way back to 1690. Interestingly, it lies on top of a hill, which is referred to as the “Slope of Encouragement”. Also called the Otaru Inari Shrine, it honours several deities encompassing academics, prosperity and agriculture and has an impressively large torii gate as well. The shrine also hosts the Temiya Festival in June, where one can see a mikoshi parade and a mochi-throwing ceremony.

Note: Do keep in mind that festival dates are subject to change, so remember to always check ahead for event updates before you visit.