Yukura Shrine

In the famous Yunokawa hot spring district of Hakodate, Hokkaido, sits Yukura Shrine. Said to date from the Muromachi period, it is held to have begun when a woodcutter, grateful for healing his illness in a hot spring he found, enshrined Yakushi Nyorai, and it is known as the birthplace of Yunokawa hot spring. Enshrining three deities including Onamuchi no Kami, it is one of the finest power spots in Hakodate, offering wide-ranging blessings such as business prosperity, good harvests, and health. The stroking rabbit, said to grant wishes when stroked, is beloved by worshippers.

Highlights

- Stroking Rabbit: A rabbit statue regarded as a messenger of Okuninushi. Different wishes are said to be granted depending on where you stroke. - Monument to the Hot Spring Birthplace: A storied site conveying the roots of Yunokawa hot spring, also a starting point for strolling the spa town. - Splendid Halls: The dignified, history-laden halls give off a pure and serene air. - Charming Fortunes and Amulets: A rich selection of rabbit-motif goods, popular as souvenirs of a trip.

Enjoying the Seasons

The New Year bustles with local first-visit worshippers, lively with people praying for the years fortune alongside the hot springs. From spring to autumn, visiting together with a stroll through the spa town is a pleasant season. Staying at an inn in Yunokawa and worshipping in the clear morning air is also recommended. It is perfect for a stop at the close of Hakodate sightseeing to give thanks for a safe trip.

Access and Basic Information

- Location: 2-chome Yunokawacho, Hakodate, Hokkaido - Access: Right by Yunokawa Station on the Hakodate Tram - Hours: Grounds open all day (shrine office about 9:00 to 17:00) - Admission: Free

A Quick Tip

Right by the tram station, it is easy to combine with Hakodate sightseeing. The stroking rabbit has different spots to stroke for different wishes, so check the explanation before praying. Worshipping after a soak in Yunokawa hot spring lets you make your wish feeling cleansed in body and mind. The rabbit-motif amulets are also welcomed as travel souvenirs.