Shinto
Hiroshima Gokoku Shrine
, Japan
About
The shrine stands within the precincts of Hiroshima Castle, in the centre of a city whose modern story has been shaped by both tragedy and renewal. As a Gokoku Jinja, a shrine for the protection of the nation, it enshrines the souls of those from the former Hiroshima Han and the wider region who lost their lives in service of their country.
The shrine was first founded in 1869, the opening year of the Meiji period, in the district of Futabanosato in Hiroshima, in mourning for those of the domain who had fallen in the Boshin War. It was relocated in 1934 to the site of what is now the Hiroshima Municipal Stadium and renamed Hiroshima Gokoku Shrine in 1939.
In 1945 the shrine was destroyed in the atomic bombing of Hiroshima. It was rebuilt in 1965 within Hiroshima Castle, the new sanctuary raised through the gifts of the citizens themselves, who had carried both their losses and their hopes forward into the post-war years.
Today Hiroshima Gokoku is among the most beloved shrines in the city for hatsumode, the first prayers of the New Year, and shichi-go-san, the autumn observance for children of three, five, and seven. The shrine continues to serve the people of Hiroshima as a place of quiet remembrance and seasonal renewal.
Visiting
Engage with Hiroshima Gokoku Shrine
Through the four pathways
Seva सेवा — Service
Offer your time and skills here. The following opportunities are open at Hiroshima Gokoku Shrine:
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Sādhana साधना — Practice
Learn the worship and practice associated with Hiroshima Gokoku Shrine:
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Sandhāna सन्धान — Wisdom
Unite with the wisdom of this tradition:
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Sādhya साध्य — Giving
Support this sacred place according to your means:
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All giving flows directly to Hiroshima Gokoku Shrine. Mandala does not take a commission.
Gallery
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