Hōkoku Shrine, kuil Shinto di Jepang
Hōkoku Shrine is a Shinto shrine in Nagahama, Japan, built in the traditional Shinmei-zukuri style with simple lines, dark gables decorated with gold accents, and cedar bark roofing. The grounds feature a smaller Inari shrine, stone lanterns lining the pathways, and old pine trees creating a peaceful setting.
The shrine was built in 1600 by local people to honor Toyotomi Hideyoshi, who ruled Nagahama during the 1570s. It was later torn down because the ruling government forbade worship of Hideyoshi, but locals secretly kept his memory alive until the shrine was rebuilt after the Meiji Restoration in the late 1800s.
The shrine holds deep meaning for Nagahama residents, who gather here for seasonal celebrations and local traditions. Events like the Tōka Ebisu Festival in January and October processions bring the community together to honor past warriors and seek good fortune through shared customs.
The shrine is less than five minutes on foot from JR Nagahama Station, making it easy to reach. The grounds are open year-round, but it is worth checking ahead if you want to see specific festivals or events, and note that the purification water basins are very low.
A large rock called Tora-ishi holds a local legend about crying when moved, wanting to stay near Hideyoshi. This distinctive stone wrapped with white rope today serves as a striking focal point that draws visitors curious about the stories connecting Hideyoshi to the shrine.
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