A shrine in the east of Gensokyo. It stands at the barrier between the outside world and Gensokyo and is also home to the Hakurei shrine maiden, an expert in resolving incidents. There is a forest near the shrine that acts as a boundary. The Three Fairies of Light live in the large Mongolian oak tree at the back of the shrine.

Reimu can see all of Gensokyo from the shrine, so she can immediately spot any incidents and rush out to find their source. The shrine is also famous as a flower viewing spot during the cherry blossom season, but normal people have stopped visiting the shrine because so many youkai come by.

If an outsider―a human who wanders into Gensokyo from the outside world―is found by a youkai, they will quickly find themselves being turned into lunch. However, they might be able to return to the world they came from if they are lucky enough to come across Hakurei Shrine.

In the past, youkai never approached Hakurei Shrine, but ever since Reimu became the shrine maiden, it has become a regular gathering spot for them. With all the youkai lurking around, regular people stay away, meaning no offerings... Even Reimu does not know what god is being worshipped at the shrine, and she has been warned by Gensokyo's other shrine and hermits that she needs to gather faith.

If you end up lost in Gensokyo, you should first head to Hakurei Shrine. You will probably face many challenges on your way home, but if you don't give up, the path will surely open for you.