About Fukuoka Prefecture Gokoku Shrine
Fukuoka Prefecture Gokoku Shrine is a shrine dedicated to approximately 130,000 souls of people from Fukuoka Prefecture who sacrificed their lives for their country in wars and incidents since the Meiji Restoration. Founded in 1941, it is located in Ropponmatsu, Chuo-ku, Fukuoka City.
The shrine grounds boast an area of approximately 20,000 square meters, and despite its central urban location, it is enveloped in a tranquil atmosphere. It is a beloved place for locals to offer gratitude to those who died in war and to pray for peace.
Highlights
Giant Wooden Torii Gate
The wooden torii gate standing at the entrance to the shrine grounds boasts an overwhelming scale, standing 13.5 meters tall with pillars approximately 1 meter in diameter. This torii gate, constructed in 1983 using Taiwanese cypress, leaves a deep impression on visitors with its majestic appearance. ### Main Shrine and Worship Hall
The wooden main shrine is built in the traditional style of Shinto shrine architecture, creating a solemn atmosphere. There is a spacious worship area in front of the worship hall, allowing for a peaceful and tranquil visit.
Memorials and Monuments
Throughout the shrine grounds are memorials and monuments commemorating various wars, conveying the history of the area. There is also a facility displaying portraits and belongings of kamikaze pilots, allowing visitors to learn about the preciousness of peace.
Points for Worship
Etiquette for Worship
- Passing Through the Torii Gate: Bow before passing through the torii gate. Avoid walking in the center of the path.
- Purifying at the Water Basin: Purify your left hand, right hand, and mouth in that order, and finally wash the handle of the ladle.
- Worshiping at the Worship Hall: Worship using the two bows, two claps, and one bow ritual.
- A Feeling of Gratitude: Let us offer our gratitude to the war dead and our prayers for peace.
Recommended Visiting Time
Early morning (8:00-9:00) is quiet, allowing for peaceful worship. The shrine grounds are also charming at dusk. The shrine gets crowded during the New Year holidays and on memorial service days, so please allow ample time for your visit.
Annual Events
- Spring Grand Festival (Late April): The most important festival.
- Autumn Grand Festival (Late October): Held in conjunction with the memorial service.
- End of War Memorial Day (August 15th): A special memorial service is held.
Benefits
Fukuoka Prefecture Gokoku Shrine is known as a shrine for national peace and security.
Main Benefits
- Prayer for National Peace and Security: The spirits of those who died in war protect the peace of the nation.
- Family Safety: Prayers for the safety and health of family members.
- Protection from Misfortune and Disaster: Protection from various calamities.
- Fulfillment of Wishes: It is believed that sincere wishes will be granted.
Amulets and Goshuin (Shrine Seals)
Various amulets are available at the shrine office. The “Peace Amulet” is a unique item offered only at this shrine. Goshuin can be received as proof of worship (offering fee: 300 yen).
Access
Access by Train
- Fukuoka City Subway Nanakuma Line “Ropponmatsu Station”: Approximately 5 minutes on foot from Exit 3
- Nishitetsu Bus “Gokoku Jinja-mae”: Approximately 1 minute on foot from the bus stop
Access by Car
- Approximately 10 minutes from the Fukuoka Urban Expressway “Nishi-Koen Ramp”
- Free parking available (approximately 50 cars)
Basic Information
- Address: 1-1-1 Ropponmatsu, Chuo-ku, Fukuoka City, Fukuoka Prefecture
- Visiting Hours: Grounds are open freely (Shrine office is open from 9:00 to 17:00)
- Admission Fee: Free
- Phone: 092-741-2555
Summary
Fukuoka Prefecture Gokoku Shrine is a shrine dedicated to war dead, notable for its massive wooden torii gate and tranquil grounds. Despite being in the city center, it offers a peaceful atmosphere where visitors can express gratitude to the war dead and offer prayers for peace. When you visit Fukuoka, be sure to stop by.
