My First Snow Experience in Japan: Discovering Hachimangu Shrine

Japan’s winter landscape has always fascinated me, and experiencing my first snow fall in Morioka, Iwate Prefecture is like stepping into my dream. I’ve been living in Japan for almost 5 years but last year 2023 was my first snow fall experience in Japan. Why? That’s the thing I need to explain. Okay! When I came here in Japan I was living on an Island where it never snowed for 3 years. Right after my 3 years contract on the island I really decided to move to a place where I can experience snow fall because that’s the main reason why I pursue my dream working here in Japan. As someone living in a tropical country which is the Philippines I have always longed to experience the beauty and magic of snow fall. That’s why right after 3 years I was landed in other Prefecture which is the Morioka the capital city of Iwate Prefecture located in the Tohoku region found in Northern part of Japan.

One of my most memorable parts of living in Morioka was visiting the Hachimangu Shrine during winter season. It is a historic and culturally significant site and it is the Prefecture’s largest shrine. As I made my way going to the shrine, I was astonished by the beauty of the snow that covered the path and the serene silence of the surroundings made my journey feel almost sacred. Even though it was very cold I didn’t mind and enjoyed exploring the shrine. As I got closer, I saw the torii gate covered in snow and I was overwhelmed with excitement. (Torii gate is a traditional Japanese gate most commonly found at the entrance of the shrine.)

As I entered the shrine, I was greeted by a breathtaking scene. The shrine buildings adorned with Japanese architecture that also covered with a layer of snow. The Hachimangu shrine, painted in brightly colored vermilion and decorated with carvings of paulownia flowers, the prefectural flower, has become a familiar face of Morioka.

I observed visitors performing traditional rituals, offering prayers, and making wishes at the ema wooden plaques display. As a first-timer, I observed the other visitors performing the ritual and followed their lead to learn how it’s done. It was truly amazing to witnessed their tradition.

As I wandered through the shrine, I found many interesting and captivating spots. I was amazed by every spot and it felt like a dream come true me, and I felt like my inner child was being healed.

Visiting Morioka Hachimangu Shrine during my first snow experience in Japan was an unforgettable adventure. The combination of natural beauty, cultural immersion, and the serene atmosphere of the shrine made it a truly magical experience. As I left the shrine and walked back through the snow-covered streets, I felt a deep sense of peace and gratitude for the moments I had spent in this enchanting winter wonderland. I Hope I can visit this place again :)