Jozankei Shrine (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Jozankei Shrine?
What makes it 61% Kids-Friendly: School-age children enjoy free entry to the snow-candle festival, lantern parades, and safe flat gravel paths, yet there are no playgrounds, rentals, or indoor shelters if they tire.
Positives:
- Safe play space: Wide, flat paths let children run freely within view.
- Free kids access: Children under high-school age join winter candle events at no charge.
Challenges:
- Uneven terrain: Stone steps and gravel near the main hall make strollers impractical.
- Limited facilities: No changing tables or nursing rooms on site; use nearby info center if needed.
What is Jozankei Shrine?
- A Shinto shrine nestled along the Toyohira River in Jozankei, dedicated to local deities and rooted in the Kappa legend
- Traditional wooden halls and a vermilion torii gate stand against forested slopes, exemplifying Hokkaido’s rural shrine architecture
- A cultural landmark that anchors annual festivals—from summer mikoshi processions to winter snow-candle displays—reflecting local traditions
What is so special about Jozankei Shrine for with kids?
- Wide open gravel paths for safe kid play
- Snow Candle Path in winter with free entry for children
- Autumn lantern festival with drums and parades
- Mt. Yuhi trailhead at the shrine for older kids
- Shaded benches for snack breaks on summer days
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours
Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Short walks and seasonal events fit well in 1–2 hours without tiring 3–12 year-olds.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Jozankei Shrine
Explore the shrine grounds:
Let kids run on flat gravel paths and spot woodland birds.
Tip: Bring sturdy shoes and point out the Kappa statue as a fun landmark.
Join the Snow Candle Path:
In late January–early February, help light snow lanterns arranged in patterns.
Tip: Kids and teens enter free; adults pay ¥500. Wear warm gloves and waterproof boots.
Watch the autumn festival:
On Sep 9–10, see lanterns, Taiko drums and portable-shrine parades.
Tip: Arrive 30 minutes before start to get a spot near the route for kids to wave.
Hike Mt. Yuhi trail:
Start from the shrine trailhead for a 1 h 10 min ascent and 40 min descent.
Tip: Only for children 8 years and older. Pack water and snacks for a mid-trail break.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Jozankei Shrine
- Arrive early: Start with the festival or candle event before crowds gather.
- Combine with Onsen: After the shrine visit, warm up in nearby hot springs in Jozankei Onsen.
Reviews of Jozankei Shrine
Crumpled Nomad
We visited Jozankei Shrine first thing in the morning, and it felt like stepping into a quiet, sacred world. The snow-covered torii gate and shrine buildings gave the entire place a mysterious, almost magical aura. It was completely still—no other visitors around—just us, the fresh snow, and the silence of the forest. The path leading up to the shrine was peaceful and undisturbed, and we took our...
Ph Chew
Is just a little shrine, nice for photoshoot during winter. the red roof really popped out in the snow white. I parked at the seicomart beside the entrance staircase of shrine.
Desmond Lai
Good experience but its very crowded even came quiet early, ard 615pm. They open from 6-9pm. And be careful of slippery grounds.
Kiruthika Raja
We went during the ice festival in sapporo. The location itself is absolutely gorgeous. However, the travel there was not so great. We took public transportation both bus and train and the buses are way too crowded and super infrequent (once in an hr).
Eyal Engel
A quiet, small but beautiful shrine. Some gold, wood and cloth pieces are displayed, the vibe is local and peaceful. Would definitely recommend If you are already in Jozenjai, but doesn't justify going there just for the shrine. Takes 15-30 minutes. There are a lot of other smaller shrines you can walk to, and there is a 1-1.5 hour walking trail in nature that starts from the shrine, very much r...
When is the best time to visit Jozankei Shrine (Sapporo, Japan)?
Spring brings early pink flowers along the approach. In summer, sit at shaded benches under trees. Autumn festival on Sep 9–10 features lanterns and drums. Winter Snow Candle Path runs late Jan–early Feb; kids enter free, dress in layers.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip bus fare (2 adults) | JPY 3,360 |
| Round-trip bus fare (2 kids) | JPY 1,680 |
| Snow Candle Path tickets (2 adults) | JPY 1,000 |
| Total Estimated | JPY 6,040 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Map of Jozankei Shrine
Address: 3 Chome Jozankeionsenhigashi, Minami Ward, Sapporo, Hokkaido 061-2302, Japan
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About Jozankei Shrine
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
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