Hida Gokoku Shrine (Takayama City, Gifu Prefecture) Complete Guide | History, Goshuin (Shrine Seals), Shrine Grounds, and Access Information
Located in the heart of Takayama City, Gifu Prefecture, on the site of the third bailey of Takayama Castle, Hida Gokoku Shrine is a shrine dedicated to the war dead from the Hida region. Within its grounds are several unique shrines, including the Golden Shrine for financial fortune and the Hida Takumi Shrine dedicated to the god of carpentry, and it is affectionately known locally as “Takayama Chukoen.”
This article comprehensively introduces all the information you need to know before visiting Hida Gokoku Shrine, including its history, highlights within the grounds, goshuin information, and access methods.
Basic Information on Hida Gokoku Shrine
Address: 90 Horibata-cho, Takayama City, Gifu Prefecture
Main Deity: 6,425 war dead from Hida
Founded: Meiji 42 (1909)
Annual Festival: May 3rd, November 5th
Visiting Hours: Open all day
Shrine Office Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Parking: Available (West side of the shrine, enter from next to the nursery school)
Hida Gokoku Shrine is located on the historical site of the former third bailey of Takayama Castle, adjacent to the north side of Shiroyama Park. The stone walls within the shrine grounds are the original remains from the Takayama Castle era, making it a place of great historical value.
History and Origins of Hida Gokoku Shrine
Circumstances of Founding
The history of Hida Gokoku Shrine dates back to the Meiji era. In 1878 (Meiji 11), the Jingu-kyo Chukyoin (Central Institute of the Jingu Sect) constructed a shrine at the site of Hida Shrine, enshrining Amaterasu Omikami and simultaneously establishing an ancestral shrine.
It was officially founded on April 21, 1879 (Meiji 12), and on June 16, 1909 (Meiji 42), a divided spirit from Yasukuni Shrine was enshrined, establishing it as the private Hida Shokonsha (Hida Shrine for the Spirits of the War Dead). This gave it the role of a shrine dedicated to the spirits of those from Hida who died in battle after the Satsuma Rebellion.
Positioning as a Gokoku Shrine
Although Hida Gokoku Shrine is not designated as a Gokoku Shrine by the Minister of Home Affairs, it has been treated as equivalent to one since the end of the war. While Gifu Prefecture also has designated Gokoku Shrines such as Gifu Gokoku Shrine and Nohi Gokoku Shrine, Hida Gokoku Shrine plays an important role as a Gokoku Shrine in the Hida region.
This shrine enshrines 6,425 soldiers from the Hida region (Takayama City, Hida City, Gero City, and Shirakawa Village) who died in the war from the Satsuma Rebellion to the Greater East Asia War (Pacific War), and serves as a place of prayer for peace for the local people.
Development of Takayama Chukoen
Long ago, it was affectionately known locally as “Takayama Chukoen,” and has developed not only as a single shrine dedicated to war dead, but also as a complex place of worship where multiple shrines are gathered. Within the grounds, in addition to the main hall of Hida Gokoku Shrine, there are several subsidiary shrines, including Hida Daijingu, Kogane Shrine, Soreiden Shrine, Hida Takumi Shrine, and Kuwaji Shrine.
Highlights of the Grounds and Details of the Subsidiary Shrines
The most distinctive feature of Hida Gokoku Shrine is that multiple unique shrines are gathered within a single grounds. Let’s take a closer look at each of these shrines.
Hida Gokoku Shrine (Main Hall)
The main hall enshrines the spirits of 6,425 war dead from the Hida region. The annual festival is held on May 3rd and November 5th, with many bereaved families and local residents in attendance. There is also a memorial hall on the grounds, preserving items related to the war dead.
Kogane Shrine
Located to the left of the main hall, Kogane Shrine is revered as the god of metal and wealth. It is known as a power spot, attracting many visitors praying for increased wealth and business prosperity. Affectionately known locally as the “God of Money,” it is bustling with people praying for business success and improved financial fortune.
Hida Daijingu Shrine
Hida Daijingu Shrine, dedicated to the god of clothing and food, is also worshipped as the god of marriage and connection. Visitors come to pray for stability in their daily lives, including food, clothing, and shelter. Because it enshrines Amaterasu Omikami, it also feels connected to Ise Grand Shrine.
Soreiden-sha Shrine
The Soreiden-sha Shrine, which enshrines the gods of Izumo, is also a place to enshrine the spirits of local benefactors. It is a shrine that follows the tradition of the Soreiden, which was located alongside the main shrine from its founding in 1878 (Meiji 11), and is deeply intertwined with the history of the region.
Hida Takumi Shrine
The Hida Takumi Shrine, which enshrines the god of carpentry, is a shrine that preserves the tradition of carpentry techniques from the Hida region, where Hida craftsmen were renowned throughout Japan. Many people involved in construction and craftsmen visit the shrine to pray for improvement in their skills and safety during construction. Hida’s woodworking techniques have been excellent since ancient times, and this shrine is a symbolic presence that preserves that tradition.
Kuwashi Shrine
Kuwashi Shrine, dedicated to the god of confectionery, is a rare shrine nationwide. Takayama is a region with a thriving Japanese confectionery culture, and the shrine attracts the faith of confectioners and confectionery shop owners. Visitors come to pray for improvement in their confectionery-making skills and business prosperity.
Goshuin (Shrine Seal) and Gift Information
About Goshuin
Hida Gokoku Shrine offers goshuin (shrine seals). The office is open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and many people receive a goshuin as a memento of their visit.
The goshuin features the calligraphy and red seal of “Hida Gokoku Shrine,” characterized by its simple yet powerful calligraphy. It may be possible to visit multiple shrines within the grounds and receive each goshuin; please inquire at the office for details.
Goshuin Notebook
Hida Gokoku Shrine also offers its own original goshuin notebook. The designs reflect the characteristics of the shrine and the Hida region, making them popular souvenirs for visitors.
Other Items Offered
Amulets and votive tablets are also offered, with a wide selection of items tailored to the blessings of the shrine’s sub-shrines, particularly those related to financial fortune, business prosperity, and skill improvement.
Seasons and Highlights of the Shrine Grounds
A Famous Cherry Blossom Spot
Hida Gokoku Shrine and its surroundings are known as one of the most famous cherry blossom spots in Takayama City. Many Somei Yoshino cherry trees are planted around the outer moat, reminiscent of a castle, and in spring, the full bloom of cherry blossoms captivates visitors.
The cherry blossoms blooming in this historical location, the site of Takayama Castle’s third bailey, have a special charm, and the contrast between the stone walls and the blossoms makes it a popular photo spot. During cherry blossom season, many tourists as well as locals visit.
Integration with Shiroyama Park
Hida Gokoku Shrine is located on the north side of Shiroyama Park, forming a landscape that is integrated with the park. The shrine grounds, with their remaining stone walls from the time of Takayama Castle’s third bailey, are ideal for a historical walking tour.
By strolling through the park and visiting the shrine, you can enjoy both the history and nature of Hida Takayama simultaneously.
A Tranquil Atmosphere
Despite being located in the heart of Takayama City, the shrine grounds are enveloped in a tranquil atmosphere. Situated on a hill overlooking the site of Takayama Castle, it offers a peaceful space away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
One of the unique charms of Hida Gokoku Shrine is being able to experience the individual characteristics of each shrine as you explore the grounds, which are home to several other shrines.
Access and Parking Information
Access by Public Transportation
From JR Takayama Station:
- Walking: Approximately 20 minutes
- Taxi: Approximately 8 minutes
- Local Bus: Use the Takayama City Loop Bus “Sarubobo Bus,” etc.
If you are walking from Takayama Station, you can stroll through the old townscape of Takayama City on your way there. It’s also recommended to visit in conjunction with other tourist spots such as Sanmachi Street.
Access by Car
From Takayama IC on the Chubu Jukan Expressway: Approximately 10 minutes
From Hida Kiyomi IC on the Tokai Hokuriku Expressway: Approximately 25 minutes
Searching for “90 Horibata-cho, Takayama City, Gifu Prefecture” or “Hida Gokoku Shrine” on your car navigation system will display the location.
Parking
There is a dedicated parking lot for the shrine. The parking lot is located on the west side of the shrine, accessed from next to the nursery school. It is located to the right of the shrine’s front entrance, so please be careful not to go to the left, as you may get lost.
Parking is free, but it can get full during peak seasons such as cherry blossom season, so it is recommended to visit with plenty of time to spare.
Nearby Tourist Spots
There are many Takayama tourist attractions around Hida Gokoku Shrine.
Shiroyama Park
Shiroyama Park, adjacent to the shrine, is a park developed on the site of Takayama Castle. It is especially beautiful during cherry blossom season and is a popular walking course.
Sanmachi Street (Old Town)
A representative tourist spot in Takayama, within walking distance of Hida Gokoku Shrine. It is a charming street lined with Edo-period townhouses, sake breweries, souvenir shops, and cafes.
Takayama Jinya
A building used as a magistrate’s office during the Edo period, designated as a national historical site. It is about a 15-minute walk from Hida Gokoku Shrine.
Miyagawa Morning Market / Jinya-mae Morning Market
Takayama’s famous morning market is also nearby. Local vegetables, crafts, and food are sold, and you can enjoy interacting with the locals.
Points and Manners for Visiting the Shrine
Order of Visiting the Shrine
Since Hida Gokoku Shrine has several smaller shrines, it is recommended to visit the smaller shrines within the grounds after visiting the main shrine. Each shrine offers different blessings, so please pray respectfully according to your wishes.
Regarding Photography
Photography is generally permitted within the shrine grounds, but there are areas where photography is restricted, such as inside the main hall and in the memorial hall. Please check before taking photos or follow the instructions on the signs.
Regarding Attire
There are no strict dress code regulations, but please dress appropriately and respectfully for a shrine visit. Formal attire is especially desirable when attending Shinto rituals such as annual festivals.
Blessings of Hida Gokoku Shrine
Hida Gokoku Shrine and its subsidiary shrines offer a variety of blessings.
- Gokoku Shrine: Prayers for national peace and security, gratitude to war dead
- Ogon Shrine: Increased financial luck, improved wealth, business prosperity
- Hida Grand Shrine: Stability of food, clothing, and shelter, matchmaking, family safety
- Hida Takumi Shrine: Skill improvement, construction safety, protection of craftsmen
- Kuwaji Shrine: Improvement of confectionery-making skills, business prosperity
- Soreiden Shrine: Ancestor worship, regional prosperity
Due to these diverse blessings, it has become a comprehensive power spot visited by worshippers with various wishes.
Annual Events and Festivals
Spring Festival (May 3rd)
The spring festival is held on May 3rd. Gratitude to the war dead and prayers for peace are offered, and bereaved families and related parties attend. It is a solemn Shinto ritual held during the fresh green season after the cherry blossom season.
Autumn Festival (November 5th)
The Autumn Festival is held on November 5th. Similar to the Spring Festival, it is a time for expressing gratitude to the war dead and praying for peace. Coinciding with the autumn foliage season, the shrine grounds are enveloped in the colors of autumn.
Other Events
General shrine events such as New Year’s visits, Setsubun festivals, and Shichi-Go-San (children’s festival) are also held. For detailed dates, please contact the shrine directly.
Summary of the Charms of Hida Gokoku Shrine
Hida Gokoku Shrine is a unique shrine that, while fulfilling its solemn role as a Gokoku Shrine (shrine dedicated to war dead), also houses distinctive subsidiary shrines such as Kogane Shrine and Hida Takumi Shrine.
Located on the historical site of the former third bailey of Takayama Castle, the shrine grounds, also known as a cherry blossom viewing spot, showcase beauty throughout the seasons. It is a power spot visited by many locals and tourists alike, seeking various blessings such as financial fortune, improved skills, and business prosperity.
When visiting Takayama, be sure to visit Hida Gokoku Shrine in addition to sightseeing spots such as the old town and Takayama Jinya. Visiting several shrines will allow you to feel the history, culture, and deep faith of the people of the Hida region.
Why not find peace of mind in the tranquil grounds, offer gratitude to the war dead and prayers for peace, and pray for your own wishes at each of the smaller shrines? Hida Gokoku Shrine is a hidden gem in Hida Takayama that offers diverse value to its visitors.
