Did you know that there are three major power spots in Biei that are popular among tourists? One is "Shirahige Falls", another is "Blue Pond", and the third is "Biei Shrine" that we will introduce this time. On the contrary, it is called one of the three great power spots in Hokkaido along with Hokkaido Shrine and Lake Toya, and has been attracting attention in recent years. However, that's not the only secret to its popularity... About 10 minutes by car or bus from JR Biei Station. Biei Shrine enshrines five gods, including Amaterasu Omikami, Izanagi no Kami, and Izanami no Kami. It is said to have begun in 1897 when Kinoshita Shiro received a branch of the deity from his hometown in Wakayama Prefecture and built a small shrine on a large tree to enshrine it. Since then, the shrine has been relocated several times as the town has developed, and was established in its current location in 1995. Recently, Biei Shrine has been in the news a lot, with people calling it one of the three great power spots in Biei, one of the three great power spots in Hokkaido, and even being featured in a book by a certain spiritual counselor. In fact, it has been attracting a lot of attention, especially from young women. The reason becomes clear when you pass through the torii gate and approach the shrine. Look at the top center of the main shrine and you'll see a heart mark! Decorations with heart marks like these are found all over the shrine grounds, and they are popular because they look great in photos. They're also called "hidden hearts" like Disneyland's "hidden Mickeys," and it's rumored that the more you find them, the closer you'll be to finding love. It's no wonder young women are crazy about them. The fortune slips are also unique. They have "Ezo fortune slips," which are known only to those in the know. Ezo Mikuji is a fortune-telling slip that was started by priests from all over Hokkaido and has a motif of local specialties. Biei Shrine's is corn. Ezo Mikuji written in Hokkaido dialect is cute and has a reputation for being funny. Biei Shrine is filled with the charms of this area, including goshuincho (stamp books) featuring the beautiful scenery of Biei. Whether you're in love or not, why not visit at least once? Biei Shrine Location: 4-1-1 Higashimachi, Biei, Kamikawa-gun, Hokkaido Phone: 0166-92-1891