Complete Guide to Fukui Prefecture Gokoku Shrine | History, Deities, Hashimoto Sanai, and Access Information
Fukui Prefecture Gokoku Shrine is a shrine located at 2-13-8 Omiya, Fukui City, Fukui Prefecture, dedicated to war dead associated with Fukui Prefecture. It enshrines approximately 32,000 spirits of those who sacrificed their lives for the nation, including Hashimoto Sanai, a patriot of the Meiji Restoration, as “Great Gods of National Protection” and “Great Gods of Peace.” This article provides a detailed explanation of Fukui Prefecture Gokoku Shrine, including its history, enshrined deities, visiting information, and access methods.
What is Fukui Prefecture Gokoku Shrine?
Fukui Prefecture Gokoku Shrine is a Gokoku Shrine whose grand enshrinement ceremony was held on March 28, 1941 (Showa 16). From around the Meiji Restoration to the Greater East Asia War, and throughout national crises including the First Sino-Japanese War and the Russo-Japanese War, this shrine enshrines those from Fukui Prefecture or those with ties to Fukui Prefecture who died in battle, were wounded, or perished in the line of duty.
The shrine’s crest is a cherry blossom, and it is a representative Gokoku Shrine of Fukui Prefecture, primarily dedicated to those associated with Fukui Prefecture who are also enshrined at Yasukuni Shrine. Many worshippers visit the shrine. Especially during exam season, it is bustling with students and their families who admire Mr. Hashimoto Sanai, known as the god of learning.
Significance of Gokoku Shrines
Gokoku shrines are shrines that comfort the souls of those who sacrificed their precious lives for the country and pass on their achievements to future generations. At Fukui Prefecture Gokoku Shrine, since its founding in 1868 (Meiji 1), the shrine has upheld the intentions of Emperor Meiji, perpetually enshrining and commemorating the loyal souls of those who perished in national crises, praying for their peaceful repose and offering gratitude.
History and Origins of Fukui Prefecture Gokoku Shrine
Circumstances of Founding
The founding of Fukui Prefecture Gokoku Shrine dates back to 1868 (Meiji 1). Initially, it began as a shrine dedicated to the war dead, enshrining the patriots who sacrificed their lives for the nation during the Meiji Restoration. Following the wishes of Emperor Meiji, it was established as a place to permanently enshrine the spirits of those who sacrificed their lives for their hometown of Fukui.
In 1939 (Showa 14), following a Ministry of Home Affairs ordinance, the shrine was formally developed as a Gokoku Shrine. Then, on March 28, 1941 (Showa 16), the Fukui Prefecture Gokoku Shrine was officially established with a grand enshrinement ceremony held at its current location in Omiya, Fukui City.
From Pre-War to Post-War
Initially, the shrine primarily enshrined war dead associated with Fukui Prefecture, including the Meiji Restoration patriot, Mr. Hashimoto Keigaku (Sanai). Subsequently, the spirits of those from Fukui Prefecture or those with ties to Fukui Prefecture who lost their lives in the national crises of the First Sino-Japanese War, the Russo-Japanese War, World War I, the Manchurian Incident, the Second Sino-Japanese War, and the Greater East Asia War (Pacific War) were successively enshrined here.
Even after the war, the shrine has continued its role as a place of remembrance, enshrining those who died in the line of duty, such as police officers, Manchurian settlement workers, and Self-Defense Forces personnel, in a separate hall (Public Safety Shrine).
Establishment of the Shūhōkan (Memorial Hall)
On August 15, 1970, the Shūhōkan, a memorial hall housing relics and memorabilia related to the enshrined deities, was completed. With approximately 2,000 items in its collection, it is an important facility that conveys the lives and achievements of the war dead to future generations through the items they left behind. Visitors can experience firsthand the history of war and the preciousness of peace by touring the Shūhōkan.
About the Deities Enshrined
Spirits of the War Dead Enshrined in the Main Hall
The main hall of Fukui Prefectural Gokoku Shrine currently enshrines 32,988 deities (some sources state 31,994). These are the spirits of those from Fukui Prefecture who were enshrined at Yasukuni Shrine during national crises from around the Meiji Restoration to the Greater East Asia War.
The enshrined deities are revered as “Great Gods of National Protection” and “Great Gods of Peace,” and are the objects of prayer for national peace and world peace.
Mr. Hashimoto Sanai (Hashimoto Keigaku)
A particularly famous deity enshrined at Fukui Prefectural Gokoku Shrine is Mr. Hashimoto Sanai (Hashimoto Keigaku), known as a brilliant scholar of the late Edo period. Hashimoto Sanai was born in 1834 (Tenpo 5) as the son of a physician in the Fukui domain, and displayed exceptional talent from a young age.
In his “Keihatsuroku” (Record of Enlightenment), written at the age of 15, he expounded on five principles: “abandon childishness,” “strengthen one’s spirit,” “set a goal,” “devote oneself to learning,” and “choose one’s companions,” outlining his philosophy of life. He studied Western learning, dedicated himself to reforming the Fukui domain’s administration, and played a crucial role in the political turmoil of the late Edo period, but was executed at the young age of 26 during the Ansei Purge.
In his hometown of Fukui, he is revered as “Sensei Sanai” and is worshipped as a god of learning, with many students visiting to pray for success in their exams. The “Masurao Omamori” (Masurao Charm), named after Sensei Sanai’s motto, is a special charm only available at the Fukui Prefectural Gokoku Shrine and is popular among those who wish to cultivate unwavering belief.
Separate Shrine (Public Safety Shrine)
In addition to the main shrine, there is a separate shrine (Public Safety Shrine). This shrine enshrines those who died in the line of duty in public service, such as police officers and firefighters, those who lost their lives in the Manchurian settlement groups, and those who died in the line of duty in the Self-Defense Forces—those who perished in public service or in settlement projects other than war.
The Public Safety Shrine plays an important role as a place of gratitude and remembrance for those who sacrificed their lives for public safety and welfare, even in peacetime.
Highlights of the Shrine Grounds
Shrine Building and Worship Hall
The shrine building of Fukui Prefecture Gokoku Shrine is a magnificent structure built at the time of its founding in 1941. In the worship hall, worshippers offer prayers and gratitude to the enshrined deities for peace. The shrine grounds are enveloped in a tranquil atmosphere, and it is a beloved place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and find peace of mind.
Shūhōkan (Memorial Hall)
As mentioned above, the Shūhōkan, built in 1970, houses approximately 2,000 relics and memorabilia related to the enshrined deity. Valuable materials conveying the memories of war, such as military uniforms, medals, wills, and photographs, are on display, and the hall is also used as a place for peace education.
Nature within the Shrine Grounds
The shrine grounds are planted with trees, including cherry trees, and are known as a popular spot for cherry blossom viewing in spring. The cherry blossom is a special flower for Fukui Prefecture Gokoku Shrine, as evidenced by the shrine’s crest being a cherry blossom. The opportunity to visit while experiencing the changing seasons is one of its attractions.
Annual Events and Festivals
Spring Grand Festival
The Spring Grand Festival, held every spring, is an important festival to comfort the spirit of the enshrined deity and express gratitude for peace. Many bereaved families, related parties, and general worshippers attend, and the Shinto rituals are performed in a solemn atmosphere.
Autumn Grand Festival
An annual grand festival is also held in the autumn, similar to the spring festival, to express gratitude to the enshrined deities and to commemorate the war dead. Related organizations and bereaved families from Fukui Prefecture also attend, expressing their condolences for those who died in the war.
Memorial Service on the Anniversary of the End of the War
A special memorial service is held on August 15th, the anniversary of the end of the war. It is positioned as an important event to prevent the memories of war from fading and to pass on the preciousness of peace to future generations.
New Year’s Visit and Exam Season
Many worshippers visit the shrine for their first shrine visit of the New Year, praying for peace throughout the year. During exam season (January to March), the shrine is bustling with students and their families praying for success, hoping to receive blessings from Mr. Hashimoto Sanai, the god of learning.
Information on Visiting the Shrine and Prayers
Visiting Hours
Fukui Prefectural Gokoku Shrine is generally open for worship all day, but the shrine office is usually open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. If you wish to receive prayers or amulets, it is recommended to visit during these hours.
Types of Prayers
Fukui Prefectural Gokoku Shrine accepts the following types of prayers:
- Prayer for Success in Exams: A prayer for academic success and passing exams, inspired by Mr. Hashimoto Sanai.
- Protection from Evil: A prayer for protection from evil for those in their unlucky year.
- Protection from All Directions: A prayer to ward off evil from any direction.
- Protection from Disaster: A prayer to protect oneself from various disasters.
- Protection from Bad Relationships: A prayer to sever bad relationships and forge good ones.
- Family Safety: A prayer for the health and safety of one’s family.
- Traffic Safety: A prayer for the safety of vehicles and pedestrians.
Advance reservations are recommended, so please contact the shrine office by phone.
Amulets and Gifts
Fukui Prefectural Gokoku Shrine offers a variety of amulets and gifts.
- Masurao Amulet: A special amulet unique to Fukui Prefectural Gokoku Shrine, named after Mr. Hashimoto Sanai’s motto. Believed to bestow unwavering belief and courage
- Amulet for Passing Exams: An amulet for academic success and passing exams
- Amulet for Warding Off Evil: An amulet for warding off evil
- Amulet for Traffic Safety: An amulet for traffic safety
- Goshuin (Temple Seal): A Goshuin is given as a memento of your visit.
The “It’s Okay” amulet, in particular, is popular as a rare amulet that can only be obtained here.
Access Information
Location
Address: 2-13-8 Omiya, Fukui City, Fukui Prefecture
Access by Public Transportation
From JR Fukui Station
- Approximately 7 minutes by car from JR Fukui Station
- Immediately after alighting at “Gokoku Jinja-mae” bus stop (Smile Bus/Community Bus)
- Approximately 25 minutes on foot
Route Bus
- Take a Keifuku Bus or Community Bus from Fukui Station and alight at “Gokoku Jinja-mae” or the nearest bus stop
Access by Car
From Expressway
- Approximately 15 minutes by car from Hokuriku Expressway “Fukui Kita IC”
- Approximately 20 minutes by car from Hokuriku Expressway “Fukui IC”
Car Navigation Settings
- Address: 2-13-8 Omiya, Fukui City, Fukui Prefecture
- When searching by phone number, enter the shrine office number
Parking
Free parking for visitors is available on the shrine grounds. While there is usually ample parking, it may become full during peak seasons such as New Year’s Day and the annual festival, so we recommend visiting with plenty of time to spare.
Nearby Tourist Attractions
Nearby tourist attractions in Fukui City are scattered around Fukui Prefectural Gokoku Shrine.
Fukui Castle Ruins
Located within walking distance of Fukui Station, Fukui Castle Ruins are the site of a castle built by Yuki Hideyasu, the former lord of the Fukui domain. Although the prefectural office and police headquarters now stand on the site, parts of the stone walls and moats remain, allowing visitors to experience the atmosphere of history.
Yohokan Garden
This Japanese garden, built as a villa for the Matsudaira family, the lords of the Fukui domain, is designated as a national scenic spot. The beautiful pond-centered strolling garden offers seasonal scenery and is located about a 10-minute drive from Fukui Prefectural Gokoku Shrine.
Ichijōdani Asakura Clan Ruins
These are the ruins of a castle town built by the Asakura clan during the Sengoku period, and are designated as a National Special Historic Site. The reconstructed samurai residences and townscape offer a valuable opportunity to experience life during the Sengoku period. It’s approximately a 20-minute drive from Fukui Prefectural Gokoku Shrine.
Fukui City Local History Museum
This museum allows you to learn about Fukui’s history and culture, and includes exhibits related to Hashimoto Sanai. Visiting after visiting Fukui Prefectural Gokoku Shrine will allow you to understand Fukui’s history more deeply.
Manners and Etiquette for Worship
Worship Etiquette
Worship at Gokoku Shrine follows the same etiquette as at any other shrine.
- Bow before passing through the torii gate: Bow before entering the shrine grounds to compose yourself.
- Purify yourself at the water basin: Purify your left hand, right hand, and mouth in that order.
- At the front of the main hall: Place your offering in the offering box and pray using the two bows, two claps, and one bow ritual.
- Upon leaving: After leaving the torii gate, turn around and bow once.
The Significance of Visiting Gokoku Shrines
Gokoku shrines are special shrines that enshrine those who sacrificed their lives for their country. When visiting, it is important to remember to express gratitude and respect to the war dead and to offer prayers for peace. It is also important to be aware that this is a place to learn about the history of war and pass on the preciousness of peace to future generations.
A Message from Fukui Prefecture Gokoku Shrine
Fukui Prefecture Gokoku Shrine is not merely a tourist spot, but an important place that conveys the history of war and the preciousness of peace. From the Meiji Restoration to the Greater East Asia War, the more than 32,000 heroes who sacrificed their lives for the nation laid the foundation for the peace we enjoy today.
By learning about the lives and achievements of the enshrined deities, including Mr. Hashimoto Sanai, we can gain the courage to face difficulties and the strength to persevere in our beliefs. This shrine is especially recommended for younger generations, as it provides an opportunity to learn about history and reflect on the meaning of peace.
Summary
Fukui Prefectural Gokoku Shrine, located in Omiya, Fukui City, Fukui Prefecture, is a Gokoku Shrine that enshrines the spirits of approximately 32,000 heroes who sacrificed their lives for the nation from the Meiji Restoration to the Greater East Asia War. Since its founding in 1941, it has been revered as the “Great God of National Protection” and the “Great God of Peace,” and is particularly known for the visits of students seeking to study, especially those who admire Mr. Hashimoto Sanai, the god of learning.
Within the shrine grounds is the Shūhōkan (Memorial Hall), which houses approximately 2,000 artifacts related to the heroes. Throughout the year, various festivals are held, including the Spring and Autumn Grand Festivals and the Memorial Service on the Anniversary of the End of the War. Prayers for success in exams, protection from evil, and protection from all directions are also accepted.
The shrine is easily accessible, approximately 7 minutes by car from JR Fukui Station and 15 minutes by car from the Fukui Kita Interchange on the Hokuriku Expressway. Free parking is available. As an important spot to learn about the history and peace of Fukui City, we highly recommend you visit.
By visiting Fukui Prefectural Gokoku Shrine, you can offer gratitude to the war dead and prayers for peace, learn from the ideals of Mr. Hashimoto Sanai, and gain the strength to forge your own path in life.
