Located in an old-growth forest, Hokkaido Shrine is a popular dating spot for the local residents. People of course visit the shrine to pay respect for the deities in the new year holidays, however, it is a national and cultural event rather than a religious ritual. I was surprised to see many foreign visitors here today; guided tour groups as well as young couples. Couples like shrines, right? That’s probably because we somehow feel the placidity and the purity of the atmosphere in the shrine. Hokkaido Shrine, after all, is one of the power spots in Hokkaido.