At the entrance to the Yunokawa Onsen hot spring district, a popular spot in Hakodate, you'll find Yukura Shrine. While it's a venerable shrine built on the very site where the hot spring originated, it also has many creative touches that appeal to younger generations! Let's take a peek at the intriguing Yukura Shrine.

The story goes back more than 360 years. Takahiro, the lord of the Matsumae clan, suffered from a serious illness in his childhood. Following his mother's divine message, he bathed in the hot spring and was miraculously cured. It is said that Yukura Shrine was officially founded when he dedicated a waniguchi (a traditional Japanese temple gong) in gratitude. However, legends trace its origins back more than 500 years, so there's no doubt it is an exceptionally ancient shrine.
Upon entering the shrine grounds, a particularly large tree catches the eye. It is an onko (Japanese yew) tree, said to be about 370 years old and the oldest tree in the Yunokawa area. Just by getting close to it, you can feel a gentle, restorative energy.
The "rabbit" enshrined before the main altar is also quite eye-catching. The rabbit has a deep connection with Yukura Shrine's main deity, Ōnamuchi-no-kami (also known as Ōkuninushi-no-mikoto), as told in the myth of the "Hare of Inaba." The Divine Rabbit, installed in 2014 to commemorate the shrine's 360th anniversary, is affectionately known as the "Nade-usagi" (petting rabbit), and visitors are said to stroke it to receive blessings.
Now, Yukura Shrine offers a unique local fortune slip from Hokkaido called "Ezo Mikuji." Ezo Mikuji are fun, quirky fortune slips themed after local specialties. And when you think of Hakodate's specialty...?
That's right, squid. The fortune's name is "Ikasu Omikuji." The name is a clever play on words: "ika" means squid, and "ikasu" means "cool" or "awesome." The fortunes are written in the Hokkaido dialect, which is sure to make you chuckle. And since it comes with such a cute mascot, you'll definitely be tempted to draw one!
Another popular item at Yukura Shrine is the lovely "Goshinen Omamori" (Divine Connection Amulet). You can choose from five different pouch and string colors and place up to three inner charms inside. There are 12 types of inner charms in total, each representing a wish for fulfillment with a single kanji character.

Customizing your own personal amulet is sure to be an exciting experience. It's perfect for yourself, of course, but it would also make a wonderful souvenir.
A venerable shrine might sound a bit intimidating, but Yukura Shrine is a truly enjoyable spiritual spot! Why not add it to your Hakodate sightseeing plans?

＜Yukura Shrine＞
Location: 2-28-1 Yunokawa-cho, Hakodate, Hokkaido
Phone: 0138-57-8282
Official Website: https://www.yukurajinja.or.jp