Complete Guide to Miyazaki Prefecture Gokoku Shrine | History, Goshuin (Seal Stamps), Memorial Hall, and Access Information
Miyazaki Prefecture Gokoku Shrine, located in Miyazaki City, Miyazaki Prefecture, is a historic shrine adjacent to Miyazaki Jingu Shrine. It enshrines 41,874 war dead from Miyazaki Prefecture who served the nation and public good since the Boshin War, and also houses a memorial hall displaying artifacts of those who died in the war. This article provides detailed information useful for visitors, including the history, facilities, goshuin (seal stamps), festivals, and access methods of Miyazaki Prefecture Gokoku Shrine.
Overview of Miyazaki Prefecture Gokoku Shrine
Miyazaki Prefecture Gokoku Shrine is a shrine located in Jingu 2-chome, Miyazaki City, Miyazaki Prefecture. Adjacent to the west side of Miyazaki Jingu Shrine, it welcomes many visitors as a sacred place of tranquility and prayer.
Basic Information
- Location: 2-3-1 Jingū, Miyazaki City, Miyazaki Prefecture
- Founded: March 1955
- Main Deities: 41,820 spirits of those who served the nation and public after the Boshin War, and 54 spirits of those who died in the line of duty (as of March 2016)
- Shrine Rank: Gokoku Shrine
- Annual Festival Dates: Spring Grand Festival, Autumn Grand Festival
Miyazaki Prefecture Gokoku Shrine is unique in that, unlike many Gokoku Shrines throughout Japan which were founded around the time of the Meiji Restoration, it was completed in 1955, after World War II, making it a relatively new Gokoku Shrine.
History of Miyazaki Prefecture Gokoku Shrine
Circumstances of Founding
At the time of the Meiji Restoration, Miyazaki Prefecture was divided into small domains such as the Obi, Takanabe, and Sadowara domains, and therefore there was no central shrine dedicated to the war dead. Therefore, the establishment of the Gokoku Shrine in Miyazaki Prefecture was delayed compared to other prefectures.
After World War II, the need for a shrine to enshrine those who died in the war increased, and in April 1953, the Miyazaki Prefecture Gokoku Shrine Reconstruction Support Association was organized. They raised donations from the citizens of the prefecture and began the reconstruction of the shrine. Construction was completed in March 1955, and the enshrinement ceremony was held on the same day, leading to its current state.
Changes in the Deities Enshrined
From its founding to the present day, the Miyazaki Prefecture Gokoku Shrine has enshrined the spirits of those who died in wars and in the line of duty since the Boshin War. The main hall enshrines the spirits of those who served the nation and the public, while the auxiliary hall enshrines the spirits of those who died in the line of duty, totaling 41,874 deities.
Relationship with Miyazaki Jingu Shrine
The Miyazaki Prefecture Gokoku Shrine is located adjacent to the west side of Miyazaki Jingu Shrine. Miyazaki Shrine is a Kanpei Taisha (a high-ranking shrine) dedicated to Emperor Jimmu, and is one of the most representative shrines in Miyazaki Prefecture.
Location of the Shrine Grounds
Located within or adjacent to the grounds of Miyazaki Shrine, many visitors visit both shrines together. Walking west from the Miyazaki Shrine approach, a beautiful white torii gate comes into view. Passing through this gate, a meticulously swept gravel path continues, enveloping you in a tranquil atmosphere.
Integrated Worship
While Miyazaki Shrine and Miyazaki Prefectural Gokoku Shrine are independent shrines, their geographical proximity means that many visitors visit both. A common style of worship involves praying for national peace and the prosperity of the Imperial Family at Miyazaki Shrine, and offering gratitude and remembrance to the war dead at Gokoku Shrine.
Facilities within the Shrine Grounds
Main Hall and Worship Hall
The main hall of Miyazaki Prefecture Gokoku Shrine is a magnificent shrine built in 1955 (Showa 30). The worship hall is designed with accessibility in mind, featuring barrier-free seating, making it safe and accessible for the elderly and those with disabilities.
Memorial Hall
The shrine grounds house the “Memorial Hall,” displaying artifacts and materials of those who sacrificed their lives for their country during the Greater East Asia War. The Memorial Hall is a valuable facility that conveys the memories of war to future generations and teaches the importance of peace, attracting many visitors.
The exhibits include last letters, uniforms, medals, and photographs of fallen soldiers, allowing visitors to reflect on the lives and sacrifices of each individual. Visiting the Memorial Hall provides an opportunity to reaffirm the tragedy of war and the importance of peace.
Memorial Monuments and Memorials
Several memorial monuments and memorials have been erected within the shrine grounds.
- Bougainville War Memorial: A memorial commemorating those who died in the Battle of Bougainville Island during the Pacific War.
- Taiwan 1st Infantry Regiment Memorial: A memorial related to the Taiwan 1st Infantry Regiment.
- 37th Division Memorial: A memorial commemorating the achievements of the 37th Division.
- Hiroshima 7310th Unit Memorial: A memorial to the Hiroshima 7310th Unit.
- Shikishima Unit Five War Heroes Memorial: A memorial commemorating the kamikaze pilots.
- 72nd Infantry Regiment Memorial: A memorial to the 72nd Infantry Regiment.
- Statue of Kamikaze Heroes: A statue commemorating the courage of kamikaze pilots.
These memorials and monuments were erected to individually commemorate those who perished in specific units or battlefields, and are visited by bereaved families and related parties.
Approach to the Shrine and Grounds
The approach to Miyazaki Prefectural Gokoku Shrine is meticulously swept with white gravel, its beauty purifying the hearts of visitors. The entire shrine grounds are enveloped in tranquility, maintaining a rich natural environment despite its urban location.
Goshuin (Shrine Seals) and Amulets
Goshuin (Shrine Seals)
Miyazaki Prefectural Gokoku Shrine offers goshuin to visitors. The goshuin features the calligraphy of “Miyazaki Prefectural Gokoku Shrine” and the shrine’s seal, and is a popular memento of the visit.
Goshuin are available at the shrine office; bring your goshuincho (seal book) for inscription. The offering fee is generally around 300 to 500 yen.
Amulets and Other Items
Miyazaki Prefectural Gokoku Shrine also offers various amulets and other items. Amulets are available to fulfill various wishes, including family safety, traffic safety, academic success, and protection from evil.
In particular, there are items related to “national peace and security” and “honoring the war dead,” which are unique to Gokoku Shrines and are often sought after by bereaved families and related parties.
Festivals and Annual Events
Miyazaki Prefecture Gokoku Shrine holds various festivals throughout the year.
Spring Grand Festival
The Spring Grand Festival, held every spring, is an important festival to express gratitude and remembrance to the war dead. Many bereaved families, related parties, and general worshippers attend, and the ceremony is conducted in a solemn atmosphere.
Autumn Grand Festival
The Autumn Grand Festival is also an important festival, similar to the Spring Grand Festival, to comfort the spirits of the war dead and pray for peace. The ceremony includes the recitation of prayers by Shinto priests and the offering of sacred branches.
Mitama Festival
The Mitama Festival is sometimes held during the Obon period. Lanterns are lit, and the shrine grounds are enveloped in a mystical atmosphere.
Monthly Festival
A monthly festival is held regularly each month, offering gratitude to the war dead and prayers for peace.
Other Festivals
General shrine events such as New Year’s visits, Setsubun festivals, and summer purification ceremonies are also held, attracting the faith of local residents.
Prayer and Worship Information
Prayer Requests
Miyazaki Gokoku Shrine accepts various prayers. Prayers can be offered for individual wishes, such as family safety, protection from evil, traffic safety, business prosperity, and success in examinations.
If you wish to request a prayer, please apply at the shrine office. Reservations may be required, so it is recommended to check by phone in advance.
Visiting Hours
While visiting the shrine grounds is generally free, the shrine office is open from approximately 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The issuance of Goshuin (shrine stamps) and amulets, as well as prayer requests, are also handled during these hours.
Shrine Visiting Etiquette
Gokoku Shrine is a sacred place dedicated to the spirits of war dead. Please observe the following etiquette when visiting:
- Bow before passing through the torii gate.
- Avoid walking in the center of the approach to the shrine.
- Cleanse your hands and mouth at the purification fountain.
- Bow twice, clap twice, and bow once in front of the main hall.
- Maintain silence and refrain from loud conversations.
- Observe the rules of the facility, such as the no-photography policy in the memorial hall.
Access and Transportation Information
Access by Train
Approximately 10 minutes on foot from JR Nippo Main Line “Miyazaki Jingu Station”
Get off at Miyazaki Jingu Station and walk towards Miyazaki Jingu Shrine. Miyazaki Prefecture Gokoku Shrine is located west of Miyazaki Jingu Shrine. The path from the station to the shrine is flat and well-marked.
Access by Bus
Get off at the Miyazaki Kotsu Bus “Miyazaki Jingu” bus stop and walk for approximately 5 minutes. Several bus routes operate from the central area of Miyazaki City.
Access by Car
- Approximately 15 minutes from Miyazaki IC on the Miyazaki Expressway
- Approximately 10 minutes from the central area of Miyazaki City
Parking is available around the shrine, and you can also use the Miyazaki Jingu Shrine parking lot. There is free parking for visitors, but it can get crowded during festivals, so consider using public transportation.
Address and Contact Information
- Address: 2-3-1 Jingu, Miyazaki City, Miyazaki Prefecture 880-0053
- Phone: Please contact the shrine office
- Official Website: https://miyazaki-gokoku.com/
- Official Instagram: @miyazakiken_gokokujinja
- Official Facebook: Available
Nearby Tourist Attractions
When visiting Miyazaki Gokoku Shrine, we recommend also visiting nearby tourist attractions.
Miyazaki Shrine
Miyazaki Shrine, located next to the shrine, is a prestigious shrine dedicated to Emperor Jimmu. Its vast grounds are lined with centuries-old trees, creating a solemn atmosphere. As one of Miyazaki Prefecture’s most representative shrines, it attracts many visitors.
Miyazaki Prefectural Museum
Located near Miyazaki Shrine, this museum offers insights into Miyazaki Prefecture’s nature, history, and culture. It also features a folk village where visitors can tour traditional houses.
Heiwadai Park
Located in the northern part of Miyazaki City, this park features the Tower of Peace (the Tower of Hakko Ichiu). From its elevated position, it offers panoramic views of Miyazaki city and is also known as a famous cherry blossom viewing spot.
Phoenix Zoo
Located along the coast of Miyazaki City, this zoo allows visitors to interact with a variety of animals. It’s a popular spot for families.
Aoshima Shrine
Shrine located on Aoshima Island in southern Miyazaki City, this shrine is popular as a power spot for matchmaking. The unique landscape surrounded by subtropical plants is a major attraction.
The Charms and Points to Note When Visiting Miyazaki Prefecture Gokoku Shrine
A Space of Tranquility and Prayer
The greatest charm of Miyazaki Prefecture Gokoku Shrine is that, despite being located in an urban area, it is a space of prayer enveloped in tranquility. The meticulously maintained grounds soothe the hearts of visitors, making it an ideal place to offer gratitude to the war dead and prayers for peace.
A Museum of Relics for Learning History
The museum of relics is a valuable facility that prevents the memories of war from fading and conveys the preciousness of peace. Through the exhibited relics and materials, you can learn about the lives and sacrifices of each individual war dead. It will be a particularly valuable opportunity for younger generations to learn about history and reflect on peace.
Barrier-Free Accessibility
The main hall is designed with barrier-free access and has seating available, so the elderly and people with disabilities can visit with peace of mind. An environment is in place where everyone can equally offer prayers to the war dead.
Combined Visit to Miyazaki Shrine and Gokoku Shrine
Because it is adjacent to Miyazaki Shrine, it is common to visit both shrines. By visiting Miyazaki Shrine, which enshrines Emperor Jimmu, and Gokoku Shrine, which enshrines the spirits of those who served the nation and the public, you can deepen your reflection on Japanese history and peace.
Summary
Miyazaki Prefecture Gokoku Shrine is located in Miyazaki City, Miyazaki Prefecture, and enshrines 41,874 spirits of those who served the nation and the public since the Boshin War. Although it is a relatively new shrine, founded in 1955, its location adjacent to Miyazaki Shrine and its excellent facilities, including a museum of relics, have made it popular with many visitors.
With its tranquil grounds, meticulously swept and clean approach, barrier-free main hall, and museum of relics that convey the memories of war, Miyazaki Prefecture Gokoku Shrine offers many reasons to visit. Why not visit both Miyazaki Shrine and Gokoku Shrine and spend some time reflecting on Japanese history and peace? Its convenient location, just a 10-minute walk from JR Miyazaki Jingu Station, is another attractive feature. When you visit Miyazaki City, be sure to stop by Miyazaki Prefectural Gokoku Shrine and offer your gratitude to the war dead and your prayers for peace.
