Hokkaido Shrine Mikado — Attraction in Sapporo

There are many tourists at the Hokkaido Shrine. We took a public bus to the place. There is a parking area at the entrance and it was a joy walking from the entrance to the Shrine steps. I saw some people offering prayers and most were just clicking away smartphones and cameras for pictures. I spent just a short while at the Shrine and decided to explore the huge area surrounding the shrine. There are really big and tall trees, like pillars in the gardens of the shrine. As there was snow, the view was simply amazing. Crows can be seen at the place and a lady and her friendly dog were walking there. I suppose the place is open for public, and the surrounding area are a great place for a walk. As the entrance to the Shrine is quite a distance, the side are decorated with a fence and some statue/idols. It was a bright and cold day, and the place looks majestic and peaceful, with snow covering most of the pathway to...

The building is not as impressive as some you can find in Kyoto or Nara, but it still has its charm. If you timed it right, you might catch the procession of priests in traditional all white and one priestess with golden head gear. I can only kick myself that I did use video mode. But the clacking of their sandals is now...

Beautiful shrine and gardens. Some of the trees were still in bloom in mid-May. Peaceful location surrounded by parks. Only established in 1869, it is not an old shrine, but very beautiful. Highly recommended if visiting Sapporo. There are a variety of festivals throughout the year. Also said to have 1,400...