Complete Guide to Hamada Gokoku Shrine | A Thorough Explanation of History, Highlights, Access, and Goshuin Information
Located in the heart of Hamada City, Shimane Prefecture, on the site of the former Hamada Castle (Kameyama Castle), Hamada Gokoku Shrine enshrines approximately 23,000 war dead from the Iwami region. Affectionately known as the “Guardian Shrine of Iwami,” it continues to pass on the achievements of the war dead and the importance of peace to future generations.
This article comprehensively introduces everything you need to know before visiting Hamada Gokoku Shrine, from its history and highlights to annual events, access methods, and Goshuin information.
What is Hamada Gokoku Shrine?
Hamada Gokoku Shrine is a Gokoku Shrine that enshrines war dead from the former Iwami Province who perished in national crises since the Meiji Restoration. Located at 123-10 Tonomachi, Hamada City, Shimane Prefecture, the shrine grounds are situated on a hill overlooking the site of Hamada Castle.
There are two Gokoku Shrines in Shimane Prefecture: Matsue Gokoku Shrine and Hamada Gokoku Shrine. Each shrine enshrines a different spirit of the war dead from the former Izumo and Oki provinces and the former Iwami province, respectively. Hamada Gokoku Shrine, as the guardian deity of the Iwami region, continues to watch over the peace and prosperity of the area.
About the Enshrined Deities
Hamada Gokoku Shrine enshrines the following war dead as deities:
- War dead from the Satsuma Rebellion to the Greater East Asia War (World War II)
- Military personnel and civilian employees from the former Iwami province
- War victims
- Total of approximately 23,000 spirits
These war dead are individuals who sacrificed their precious lives for their nation. It is the shrine’s important mission to honor their achievements, commemorate them, and convey the importance of peace.
History of Hamada Gokoku Shrine
Origin of Founding
Hamada Gokoku Shrine was founded with the purpose of commemorating those who died in the war after the Meiji Restoration. Initially established as a Shokonsha (a shrine dedicated to the war dead), it was later developed into a Gokoku Shrine (a shrine dedicated to the war dead).
Before the war, it was designated a Gokoku Shrine by the Minister of Home Affairs. After the war, it restarted as a religious corporation and has continued to enshrine the spirits of the war dead of the Iwami region to this day.
Relationship with Hamada Castle (Kameyama Castle)
Hamada Gokoku Shrine is located on the site of the former Hamada Castle (Kameyama Castle). Hamada Castle was the seat of the Hamada Domain during the Edo period and was built on a hill overlooking the Sea of Japan.
After the Meiji Restoration, Hamada Castle was demolished due to the castle demolition order, but the construction of the Gokoku Shrine on the site preserves its historical value. Even today, the stone walls and topography that remain from the castle ruins can be seen within the shrine grounds, and it has been selected as one of the Continued Top 100 Japanese Castles.
Post-War History
After World War II, Hamada Gokoku Shrine, separated from state control by the GHQ’s Shinto Directive, was rebuilt as a religious corporation with the support of local residents. Since then, it has continued to pray for remembrance and peace while remaining deeply connected to the local community.
Highlights of the Shrine Grounds
There are many points of interest within the grounds of Hamada Gokoku Shrine that visitors should see.
Main Hall and Worship Hall
The main hall and worship hall, built on a hill, exude a solemn atmosphere. The grounds are spacious, allowing for a peaceful environment for worship. From the worship hall, you can overlook the city of Hamada and feel the landscape of the hometown that the war dead protected.
Statue of Bugler Kiguchi Kohei
Of particular note within the shrine grounds is the statue of bugler Kiguchi Kohei. Kohei Kiguchi is a military officer known for the anecdote that during the Battle of Seonghwan in the First Sino-Japanese War, he continued to blow his bugle even while being hit, and that he was found lying dead with the bugle still in his mouth.
This statue, symbolizing the loyalty and bravery of soldiers, attracts many visitors.
Monument to Hogetsu Shimamura
A monument to Hogetsu Shimamura, a literary critic and playwright from Hamada City, is also erected on the shrine grounds. Hogetsu Shimamura was active from the Meiji to Taisho periods and made a significant contribution to the development of modern Japanese theater.
This monument, honoring cultural figures associated with Hamada, demonstrates that the shrine contributes not only to commemorating war dead but also to the preservation of local history and culture.
Statue of the Mother
A “Statue of the Mother,” a characteristic feature of Gokoku Shrines, is also erected on the shrine grounds. This statue, depicting a mother sending her son off to war, deeply moves visitors as a symbol of the sorrow of war and a mother’s love.
Other Stone Monuments and Memorials
Many other stone monuments and memorials line the shrine grounds, allowing visitors to learn about people and historical events associated with Hamada. Visiting these sites deepens your understanding of Hamada’s history and culture.
Continued Top 100 Japanese Castles Stamp
As Hamada Castle Ruins are designated as one of the Continued Top 100 Japanese Castles, a castle stamp is available at the shrine office. It is an important stop for those visiting castles.
Annual Events
Hamada Gokoku Shrine holds various festivals and ceremonies throughout the year.
Spring Grand Festival
In spring, the Spring Grand Festival is held to commemorate the war dead. Bereaved families, related parties, and local residents attend, offering prayers for peace.
Lantern Festival
The Lantern Festival is held in summer. Approximately 1,000 lanterns line the temple grounds, creating a mystical atmosphere for expressing gratitude and commemorating the war dead. During the lantern-lighting period, the beautiful scenery can be enjoyed even at night, attracting many visitors.
Memorial Service
The Memorial Service is the most important festival of the year. Held around August 15th, the anniversary of the end of the war, the memorial service is conducted with solemnity. Many people, including bereaved families, attend, renewing their commitment to peace and commemorating the war dead.
Autumn Grand Festival
In autumn, the Autumn Grand Festival is held, expressing gratitude for the harvest and reporting to the war dead.
New Year’s Day Festival
At the start of the new year, the New Year’s Day Festival is held, praying for peace and prosperity in the region. Many visitors come for their first shrine visit of the year.
These ceremonies are important opportunities to commemorate the war dead and to continue conveying the importance of peace.
Goshuin Information
Hamada Gokoku Shrine offers Goshuin (temple/shrine stamps).
Where to Obtain Goshuin
Goshuin are available at the shrine office. Please request one at the office after your visit.
Hours of Availability
Goshuin are usually available during the shrine office’s opening hours, but may not be available during festivals or events. To ensure you receive one, it is recommended to contact the shrine in advance.
Features of the Goshuin
The Hamada Gokoku Shrine Goshuin features the shrine’s name and date of visit written in ink, along with the shrine’s seal. It’s a Goshuin that evokes the solemn atmosphere unique to Gokoku Shrines.
Access and Parking Information
Location
Address: 123-10 Tonomachi, Hamada City, Shimane Prefecture
Access by Train
- From Hamada Station on the JR San’in Main Line:**
- Approximately 15-20 minutes on foot
- Approximately 5 minutes by taxi
- Head towards Hamada city center from Hamada Station and follow the signs for Hamada Castle Ruins.
Access by Car
- From Hamada Interchange on the Hamada Expressway:**
- Approximately 10 minutes
- Take National Route 9 towards the city center.
Parking
Parking is available on the shrine grounds and in the surrounding area. However, it may be crowded during festivals and events, so please consider using public transportation.
Notes for Visitors
To reach the shrine, you will need to climb a sloping path. Since it is a somewhat long slope, we recommend wearing comfortable shoes. Especially for the elderly and those with mobility issues, we recommend taking your time to climb slowly. ## Nearby Tourist Attractions
When visiting Hamada Gokoku Shrine, exploring the surrounding tourist attractions will allow you to experience the charm of Hamada more deeply.
Hamada Castle Ruins
The shrine itself is located on the site of Hamada Castle, and remnants of the castle, such as stone walls and baileys, remain in the surrounding area. A must-see spot for castle enthusiasts.
Hamada City World Children’s Art Museum
An art museum enjoyable for both children and adults, featuring a wealth of interactive exhibits.
Iwami Tatamigaura
A coastline designated as a national natural monument, showcasing unique geological formations.
Hamada Port
A port where fresh seafood from the Sea of Japan is landed, with numerous restaurants serving seafood dishes in the surrounding area.
Manners and Points for Visiting a Shrine
Basic Worship Etiquette
- Bow when passing through the torii gate.
- Avoid walking in the center of the path.
- Purify your body and mind at the water basin.
- Bow twice, clap twice, and bow once in front of the main hall.
Mindset at a Gokoku Shrine
Hamada Gokoku Shrine is a shrine dedicated to those who died in war. When visiting, please pray quietly with feelings of gratitude and remembrance for the war dead. Please be considerate and refrain from speaking loudly or making noise on the shrine grounds.
Photography
Photography is generally permitted on the shrine grounds, but please refrain from taking pictures inside the main hall or during religious ceremonies. Also, please remember to be considerate of other worshippers.
Facilities at Hamada Gokoku Shrine
Shrine Office
This office handles the issuance of Goshuin (shrine stamps), amulets, and the acceptance of various prayers. The stamp for the Continued Top 100 Japanese Castles is also located here. ### Assembly Hall
This facility is used during festivals and ceremonies.
Shrine Grounds Facilities
Basic facilities such as restrooms are available on the shrine grounds.
The Charm of Hamada Gokoku Shrine
A Place for Learning About History and Peace
Hamada Gokoku Shrine is not merely a tourist spot, but an important place to learn about the history of war and the preciousness of peace. Especially for younger generations, it provides an opportunity to pass on the memories of war and reflect on the meaning of peace.
A Hub of Hamada’s History and Culture
Located on the site of Hamada Castle, and featuring monuments honoring cultural figures such as Shimamura Hogetsu, this shrine is an indispensable place for understanding Hamada’s history and culture.
A Quiet and Peaceful Space
Despite being located in the city center, the shrine grounds on a hill offer a quiet and peaceful atmosphere. It is a shrine where you can visit with a calm mind and find peace of mind.
Excellent Views
Because it is located on a hill, you can see Hamada city and the Sea of Japan from the shrine grounds, making the views one of its attractions.
Summary
Hamada Gokoku Shrine is a Gokoku Shrine located on the site of Hamada Castle in Hamada City, Shimane Prefecture, and enshrines approximately 23,000 war dead from the Iwami region. The shrine grounds contain many points of interest, including a statue of bugler Kohei Kiguchi and a monument to Hogetsu Shimamura. Important ceremonies such as the Memorial Service and the Lantern Festival are held throughout the year.
It is easily accessible, about a 15-20 minute walk from JR Hamada Station and about a 10-minute drive from the Hamada Interchange on the Hamada Expressway. When visiting, please wear comfortable shoes and slowly ascend the sloping approach to the shrine.
You can also receive a Goshuin (shrine stamp) and a stamp for the Continued Top 100 Japanese Castles at the shrine office, making it recommended for those visiting shrines and castles.
Hamada Gokoku Shrine is a place to remember the achievements of the war dead and to reaffirm the preciousness of peace. When visiting Hamada, please be sure to pay your respects.
Hamada Gokoku Shrine is a place to remember the achievements of the war dead and to reaffirm the importance of peace. Official website: http://hamada-gokoku.jp/
