Hiroshima Gokoku Shrine, Gokoku shrine in Motomachi, Hiroshima, Japan
Hiroshima Gokoku Shrine is a Shinto shrine in Motomachi, Hiroshima, dedicated to the war dead of the region. The shrine complex features a wide main hall with a grey-green gabled roof and a large stone torii gate at the entrance.
The shrine was founded in 1869 to honor those who died in the Boshin War. It was moved several times, destroyed by the atomic bomb in 1945, and rebuilt in its current location in 1956.
The shrine is a popular spot for hatsumode, the first shrine visit of the year, and for shichi-go-san, when families bring children in traditional dress. Visitors can see white-clad priests and wooden plaques with wishes.
The shrine is in central Hiroshima, a short walk from Hiroshima Castle and several tram stops. It is open every day, and the grounds are accessible to visitors with strollers or wheelchairs.
The shrine is closely linked to the Hiroshima Toyo Carp baseball team, which visits every January to pray for victory. The original large torii gate survived the atomic bombing and now stands near a broadcasting station.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 94,465 contributors worldwide.
