Raiun Shrine in Shari, Shiretoko: The Ultimate Ainu Sacred Site and Power Spot of Eastern Hokkaido

The Raiun Shrine in Shari Town, Shiretoko, is famous as a power spot in Shiretoko. Particularly noteworthy is the "Raiun no Mizu," which is spring water flowing at a rate of 5 tons per minute. It is highly praised for its pure, delicious taste and is said to be excellent for bringing good fortune. This time, we’ll introduce the charm, history, and access information of Raiun Shrine, known as the most powerful spot in eastern Hokkaido.

What is Raiun Shrine in Shiretoko, the Home of the Ainu Gods?

Nestled in Hokkaido's natural landscape, Raikun Shrine sits in a place the Ainu people called “Raikunnai,” meaning “Valley of the Dead.” This area has long been held as a sacred ground, revered by the Ainu people, who view the deceased not merely as those who have passed but as wise beings who have enriched the lives of those still living with their knowledge and blessings.

Constructed in 1899, Raikun Shrine has become a local gathering spot known as “Izumi-no-Mori Raikun Park.” The area surrounding the shrine remains largely untouched, with trees spreading their branches freely, creating a spiritual ambiance along the approach. It's no surprise that this shrine is revered as a “power spot,” believed to house the divine spirit of the Ainu.

Some Say It’s the Best Water in Hokkaido! "Raiun’s Water"

Within the shrine’s grounds, spring water flows from the snowmelt of Mount Shari, praised as “Raikun’s Water.” Maintaining a temperature of about 6°C year-round, this pristine water is accessible even in winter. A deity of water is enshrined beside the spring, adding to the area’s tranquil and sacred atmosphere.

Raikun’s Water is renowned for its quality and was selected by Kirin Brewery for their “Protect Hokkaido’s Famous Waters” project. This water, known for its exceptional taste, can be collected from a dedicated spot near the spring. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own containers if they’d like to take some of this pure water home.

While Raikun’s Water is integrated into Shari Town’s daily water supply, locals still frequent the shrine to draw it fresh directly from the source.

A Healing Walk Through Nature: From the Torii Gate to the Main Shrine

The main shrine is on a small hill, accessible by a peaceful forest path from the torii gate near the spring. Like many renowned spiritual spots nestled deep within untouched nature, Raikun Shrine exudes a serene atmosphere. Walking through the dense, lush forest on your way to the shrine feels like entering a “healing forest,” with negative ions in abundance, purifying both body and spirit.

The five-minute walk to the main shrine can be uneven, so visitors should wear comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes.

Fortune Items Available at Shari Roadside Station

Just a 15-minute drive from Raiun Station, you’ll find Shari Roadside Station, where you can buy fortune goods from Raiun Shrine. If you're looking for charms like amulets or ema plaques for good fortune, this is a great stop.

The ema plaques available at Shari Roadside Station have space on the back where you can write your wish and address. You’re encouraged to take the plaque home after writing your wish. Once your wish comes true, you can mail it back to the station, where they will dedicate it to Raiun Shrine. They also have charms for home and traffic safety.

Additionally, they offer a unique souvenir: an empty bottle for collecting Raiun’s sacred water. This bottle set includes a map to Raiun Shrine, an offering coin, and even stickers of a cute local mascot. It’s perfect for those planning to visit Raiun Shrine after stopping by the roadside station.

Fortune Goods at Shari Roadside Station

The station offers a variety of fortune-bringing Raiun goods, including Raiun Shrine ema plaques, Raiun water keychains, Raiun wooden plaques, Raiun cups, and Raiun glass floats.

Getting to Raiun Shrine

By JR Train

Start from JR Sapporo Station and travel to JR Kushiro Station. From there, transfer to the JR Senmo Main Line and head to Shiretoko Shari Station. Once there, you can reach the shrine with a 15-minute drive or taxi ride. (Approximate travel time: 7 hours)

By Car

From Michi-no-Eki Shari, drive south along Route 334 for about 20 minutes. Alternatively, it’s about a 10-minute drive from JR Senmo Main Line’s Kiyosato Station.

Raiun Water’s Softness Makes it Perfect for Coffee

Since Raiun water is soft, it’s recommended not only as drinking water but also for making coffee. It’s said that the taste of coffee can vary significantly depending on the water used. Soft water, known for its mild, smooth taste, is easy to drink. After visiting the shrine, why not relax with coffee brewed with Raiun water? It’s sure to leave you feeling happy and refreshed.

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Raiun Shrine in Shari, Shiretoko: The Ultimate Ainu Sacred Site and Power Spot of Eastern Hokkaido