1. What is Shintoku Shrine?

The history of Shintoku Shrine is relatively short. It began in 1903 (Meiji 36) when volunteers from the Tondenhei (frontier soldiers) who were involved in the development of Hokkaido erected a wooden pillar near the southeast of the present-day Shintoku Elementary School and enshrined Amaterasu Omikami. After several relocations, it finally settled in its current location.

Shintoku Shrine, though once a famous cherry blossom viewing spot, is now known for its beautiful blossoms. However, this change comes after a tragic event. In 1916, while Dengoro Ito was away, a tragic disaster occurred in which his wife and children, along with their horse, were burned to death.

The Ezo cherry trees that adorn the temple grounds were originally planted by Dengoro to commemorate his wife and children. Later, in order to pass on to future generations the story of how the temple became a famous cherry blossom viewing spot, the "Monument to Dengoro Ito and His Wish for Cherry Blossoms" was erected on the temple grounds in 1963.

Ezo cherry blossoms are more common in Hokkaido than Somei Yoshino cherry blossoms, which are commonly found on Honshu. The flowers are a deeper color than Somei Yoshino, and the vermilion leaves sprout at the same time the flowers open, giving the entire tree a vibrant appearance.

2. Highlights of the cherry blossoms at Shintoku Shrine

Ezo cherry blossoms cover the slopes of Mt. Shintoku, centered around the temple grounds. I'd like to introduce three points of interest and charms of these blossoms.

●Stairs in front of the main shrine

First, a classic composition is the staircase in front of the main shrine. A large Ezo cherry tree stands beside it, almost covering it. With patches of green beginning to appear all around, you'll encounter a scene that truly evokes the awakening of spring.

● A bridge adorned with cherry blossoms

Along the path leading to the main shrine, there is a vermilion bridge. In early May, this bridge becomes a tunnel of Ezo cherry blossoms. Surrounded by vibrant cherry blossoms, it is a truly peaceful spot.

●Main shrine plaza

If you look around from the plaza in front of the main shrine, you can enjoy the cherry blossoms in a different way. What's particularly noteworthy is how they interact with other flowers.

The vibrant interplay of yellow and pink created by the forsythia and Ezo cherry blossoms is truly stunning.

The Japanese azaleas are also in full bloom at your feet. It's fun to take pictures layering the various colors. You're sure to be thoroughly soothed by the colorful scenery.

3. The observation deck is accessible by car! Shintoku Mountain is also popular for light hiking.

Finally, let me introduce "Shintoku Mountain," which is located behind Shintoku Shrine. Although the road is not shown on the map, an unpaved road continues all the way to the summit.

Once you reach the top, you'll be rewarded with a magnificent view overlooking the Tokachi Plain! It's also very popular with hikers because it's an easy climb, taking only about 30 minutes on foot from Shintoku Shrine to the summit.

Of course, since there's a road, you can also visit by car! The scenery of the snow-covered Hidaka Mountain Range is beautiful, so be sure to stop by after enjoying the cherry blossoms.

So, what did you think? Shintoku Shrine is a representative cherry blossom viewing spot in the Tokachi area of ​​eastern Hokkaido. It's a place where you can enjoy both the beauty and grandeur that are characteristic of Hokkaido.

Shintoku Shrine

Address

11, Nishi 1-jo Kita 3-chome, Shintoku-cho, Kamikawa-gun, Hokkaido

HP

https://www.pref.hokkaido.lg.jp/kn/tkn/hana/place/t008.html

Remarks

Best time to see cherry blossoms: Early to mid-May

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