Obihiro Shrine Hanachozu 2026 Schedule | The world of The Tale of Genji reflected on the water’s surface

The graceful beauty of Obihiro Shrine’s “Hanachozu” has become a hot topic, and the number of visitors is said to grow year by year. Seasonal flowers float across the surface of the water, filling one corner of the shrine grounds with vibrant color.

Recently, the 2026 viewing schedule was announced. We’re excited again this year to see beautiful photos and word of mouth spread mainly on social media! Be sure to visit and experience it in person.

Hanachozu at Obihiro Shrine

Hanachozu refers to a purification basin at a shrine or temple decorated with seasonal flowers floating on the water. The soothing sight of beautiful blooms drifting on the surface has gained popularity, and in recent years Hanachozu displays have been presented at shrines and temples across Japan.

“Hana no En,” expressing the world of The Tale of Genji through flowers

Obihiro Shrine’s Hanachozu is named “Hana no En.”

The theme behind it is the Japanese classic literary work The Tale of Genji. Hanachozu displays inspired by chapter titles from The Tale of Genji are presented during each viewing period.

In a large purification basin about the size of one tatami mat, the chief priest and his wife carefully arrange seasonal flowers. The colors spreading across the water convey an elegant atmosphere, as if taken from a scene in a story. Obihiro Shrine’s beautiful Hanachozu has drawn growing attention, even ranking highly in travel magazine lists of must-see Hanachozu displays.

One of the charms of Obihiro Shrine’s Hanachozu is its beauty, which, combined with the calm atmosphere of the shrine grounds, makes you want to stand and admire it at length. Wondering what thoughts the chief priest and his wife put into selecting the flowers and designing each display is also part of the enjoyment.

2026 Hanachozu Viewing Schedule

The 2026 viewing schedule is as follows.

*The viewing period may change depending on the condition of the flowers.

Because the flowers and color palette change with each viewing period, one of the attractions is being able to encounter a different scene each time you visit.

Recommended Times to Enjoy Hanachozu

The impression of Obihiro Shrine’s Hanachozu changes slightly depending on the time of day. Mornings are relatively less crowded with worshippers, making them ideal for those who want to quietly admire the Hanachozu. When sunlight filters in, the flowers on the water may appear to glow softly.

Around midday, more worshippers gather in the shrine grounds, creating a livelier atmosphere. You’ll also see people taking photos and enjoying a stroll while soaking in the shrine’s ambiance. Since the viewing period is limited, visiting earlier in the schedule with extra time to spare can help avoid missing it.

Etiquette for Enjoying Hanachozu

Hanachozu decorates the purification basin used before worship. When viewing it, it is also important to observe shrine etiquette and manners.

1. Calm your mind and bow once
2. Hold the ladle in your right hand and pour about 30% of the water over your left hand
3. Switch the ladle to your left hand and pour about 30% over your right hand
4. Hold it again in your right hand, pour water into your left hand, and rinse your mouth
5. Purify your left hand once more
6. Hold the ladle upright, let the remaining water run down the handle, and place it back face down

In addition, Obihiro Shrine provides the following guidance.

• Use the flowing water to purify your hands and mouth
• Do not touch the flowers
• Do not pour water onto the Hanachozu flowers
• Be considerate of worshippers when taking photos

Obihiro Shrine Is Also Known as a Shrine Visited by Long-Tailed Tits

Obihiro Shrine is also known as “the shrine visited by long-tailed tits.” In winter, the beloved wild bird known for its round white appearance, the Shimaenaga, may sometimes be seen among the trees in the shrine grounds.

The hugely popular “Shimaenaga omikuji” is available year-round, so be sure to pick one up and enjoy its adorable form for yourself.

In addition, various wild birds visit the lush natural grounds of Obihiro Shrine, allowing visitors to enjoy different scenery throughout the four seasons. Even simply taking a slow walk there is refreshing and uplifting.

After your visit, why not take a stroll around the grounds and enjoy the seasonal nature?

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