Complete Guide to Toyama Prefecture Gokoku Shrine | History, Prayers, Flea Market, and Access Information
Toyama Prefecture Gokoku Shrine is a Gokoku Shrine located in Isobe-cho, Toyama City, Toyama Prefecture. It enshrines 28,679 war dead from the Meiji Restoration to the Greater East Asia War (Pacific War), and is revered as the guardian deity of Toyama Prefecture. Within the shrine grounds are the Isa-Yushi Shrine, dedicated to the victims of the Toyama air raids, and the Iho-kan, which displays relics of the fallen soldiers. A flea market with 180 stalls is held on the first Sunday of every month, making it an important place where history and culture thrive.
History and Origins of Toyama Prefecture Gokoku Shrine
From Shokonsha to Gokoku Shrine
The history of Toyama Prefecture Gokoku Shrine begins in March 1912 (Meiji 45/Taisho 1), when it was officially recognized as “Toyama Prefecture Shokonsha.” Initially, it was built as a facility to enshrine the spirits of those from Toyama Prefecture who died fighting for their country in wars after the Meiji Restoration.
On April 1, 1939 (Showa 14), by order of the Ministry of Home Affairs, all Shokonsha shrines nationwide were renamed “Gokoku Shrine,” and Toyama Prefecture Shokonsha was also renamed “Toyama Prefecture Gokoku Shrine.” This renaming was done to more clearly honor and commemorate the war dead, emphasizing its character as a guardian deity of the nation.
The Great Toyama Air Raid and Post-War Reconstruction
From late night on August 1st to the early morning of August 2nd, 1945, Toyama City was subjected to a large-scale air raid by the US military. This “Great Toyama Air Raid” resulted in the destruction of the Toyama Prefectural Gokoku Shrine. In Toyama City, which suffered catastrophic damage with approximately 99.5% of the urban area destroyed, the loss of the shrine was a major blow.
After the war, the reconstruction of the shrine progressed thanks to the enthusiasm of the people of Toyama Prefecture, and the current shrine building is the post-war reconstruction. This reconstruction was realized with the support of many citizens, as a way to express gratitude and remembrance for those who died in the war, and as a prayer for peace.
Deities and War Dead Enshrined
28,679 War Dead Spirits
Toyama Prefectural Gokoku Shrine enshrines 28,679 individuals from Toyama Prefecture who died fighting for their country in numerous wars from the Meiji Restoration to the Greater East Asia War (Pacific War). These war dead sacrificed their lives in the following conflicts:
- Boshin War (Meiji Restoration)
- Satsuma Rebellion
- First Sino-Japanese War
- Russo-Japanese War
- World War I
- Manchurian Incident
- Second Sino-Japanese War
- Greater East Asia War (Pacific War)
These war dead varied in age and position, from young student soldiers who lost their lives to fathers who left their families behind to go to war. Each had their own life and story. Toyama Prefectural Gokoku Shrine cherishes and enshrines each of these spirits, playing a vital role in passing on their achievements to future generations.
Isaoshi Shrine
Within the shrine grounds stands the Isaoshi Shrine as a subsidiary shrine. This shrine enshrines the spirits of those who perished in the Toyama air raid by the US military, which began late at night on August 1, 1945, as well as the spirits of those who died in the line of duty and those associated with the shrine.
In the Toyama air raid, more than 2,000 civilians lost their lives in just over two hours. The Isaoshi Shrine is an important facility that conveys the tragedy of war and passes on the preciousness of peace to future generations. A memorial service is held every year on August 1st, with many bereaved families and citizens attending to commemorate the victims.
Highlights and Facilities on the Shrine Grounds
Main Hall and Worship Hall
The main hall of Toyama Prefectural Gokoku Shrine is a magnificent shrine building rebuilt after the war. Its solemn structure, featuring a lattice ceiling, inspires a sense of reverence in visitors. The spacious area in front of the main hall is bustling with many worshippers during New Year’s visits and the annual festival.
The shrine’s architectural style is based on the Shinmei-zukuri style, but incorporates modern elements, resulting in a dignified presence. The sacred object is enshrined inside the main hall, where daily rituals are performed.
Ihokan (Memorial Hall)
The Ihokan is a facility established in August 1995 as part of the 50th anniversary of the end of the war. Its purpose is to commemorate the war dead and their spirit, conveying the dignity of our ancestors and offering solace.
The hall displays valuable materials such as personal belongings, last letters, photographs, military uniforms, and medals of war dead. Particularly striking are the letters and last letters written to families before deployment, expressing love for family and patriotism. Through these exhibits, one can learn about the realities of war and the importance of peace.
The Ihokan Museum is a free-to-visit facility used for school trips and peace education. It serves as an important educational institution, quietly conveying the tragedy of war and the preciousness of peace to visitors.
Sumo Ring
The shrine grounds also feature a sumo ring, where traditional local events and ceremonial sumo matches are held. Sumo and Shinto shrines have a long and deep connection, with sumo being performed as a religious ritual. The sumo ring at Toyama Prefectural Gokoku Shrine plays a central role in the local community, carrying on this tradition.
A Famous Cherry Blossom Spot
Various types of cherry trees are planted on the grounds of Toyama Prefectural Gokoku Shrine, and in spring, the grounds are adorned with cherry blossoms in full bloom. Walking along the Matsukawa River from Toyama Castle Park, you can enjoy the cherry blossom-lined path to the back of the shrine.
During cherry blossom season, many people visit to celebrate the arrival of spring beneath the blossoms. The cherry blossoms in the shrine grounds hold special significance, serving as a solace for the souls of those who died in war and as a symbol of peace.
Peace Street and Ginkgo Tree-lined Avenue
The path extending straight east from the shrine’s torii gate is called “Peace Street,” and ginkgo trees line the street for approximately 500 meters. In autumn, the golden ginkgo trees create a beautiful landscape, attracting many visitors for strolls.
On clear days, the Tateyama mountain range can be seen from Peace Street, offering a spectacular view unique to Toyama. The name Peace Street was chosen to reflect the post-war reconstruction and the desire for peace, making it a street of special meaning for the citizens of Toyama.
Gokoku Shrine Flea Market | A Bustling Event on the First Sunday of Every Month
History and Overview of the Flea Market
At Toyama Prefecture Gokoku Shrine, the “Open-Air Flea Market” has been held on the first Sunday of every month (sometimes the second Sunday in January and August) since 1984. This market has become a representative event of Toyama City, a large-scale flea market with approximately 180 stalls.
The name “Nomi-no-ichi” (flea market) means “flea market,” and it is a popular place where various items such as used clothing, antiques, and daily necessities are bought and sold.
What kind of stalls are there and how to enjoy it?
The Nomi-no-ichi features a wide variety of stalls. The main types of stalls are as follows:
- Food: Fresh vegetables, fruits, homemade bread, sweets, prepared foods, etc.
- Clothing: Secondhand clothes, kimonos, children’s clothes, accessories, etc.
- Miscellaneous Goods: Tableware, interior goods, handicrafts, handmade goods, etc.
- Antiques: Old tools, old books, records, old toys, etc.
- Plants: Seedlings, potted plants, gardening supplies, etc.
- Toys: Children’s toys, games, character goods, etc.
The wide variety of goods is exciting just to look at, and there’s the joy of finding hidden treasures. Bargaining is also part of the fun, and it’s a place where community communication is fostered through conversations with vendors.
Seasonal Charms
The flea market is held throughout the year, offering different attractions in each season. Spring brings shopping under the cherry blossoms, summer brings fresh summer vegetables, autumn brings the vibrant colors of the ginkgo trees, and winter offers warm food. The vendors change with each season, so there are new discoveries every time you visit.
For children, the fun of searching for toys and candy makes it an ideal event for families. It’s bustling with people from early morning and has become a deeply ingrained part of the culture of Toyama citizens.
Prayer, Goshuin (Shrine Seal), and Visiting Information
About Prayer
Toyama Prefectural Gokoku Shrine accepts various types of prayers. The main types of prayers are as follows:
- Family Safety: Prayers for the health and happiness of the family
- Exorcism: Prayers to ward off misfortune during the unlucky year
- Traffic Safety: Prayers for vehicle safety and safe travel
- Business Prosperity: Prayers for the development and prosperity of the business
- Prayers for Success in Exams: Prayers for success in exams and tests
- Prayers for Safe Childbirth: Prayers for the health of mother and child and for a safe delivery
- First Shrine Visit: Prayers for the healthy growth of the baby
- Shichi-Go-San: Prayers for the growth of children and for their future health
Those wishing to request a prayer should register at the shrine office. Reservations may be required, so we recommend checking by phone in advance.
About Goshuin (Shrine Seals)
Toyama Prefectural Gokoku Shrine offers Goshuin. Many visitors have commented on the careful writing of the Goshuin. Goshuin are proof of worship and a tangible record of the connection with the shrine. If you don’t have a goshuincho (stamp book), you can purchase one at the shrine. Please check with the shrine office regarding the offering fee. Some visitors have expressed surprise at being told it’s free, but generally, offering a small fee is customary.
Shrine Visiting Etiquette
Observing basic shrine visiting etiquette will allow for a more heartfelt visit.
- When passing through the torii gate: Bow before entering the shrine grounds.
- Purifying at the water basin: Purify your left hand, then your right hand, then your mouth.
- Walking along the approach to the shrine: The center is the path for the gods, so walk along the sides.
- Proper bowing etiquette: Two bows, two claps, and one bow is the basic form.
- Attitude within the shrine grounds: Behave quietly and respectfully.
Annual Events and Festivals
Major Festivals
Toyama Prefectural Gokoku Shrine holds various festivals throughout the year.
- New Year’s Day Festival (January 1st): A festival celebrating the New Year
- Spring Grand Festival (late April): A grand spring festival, offering gratitude to the war dead
- Memorial Service (August 1st): Commemorating the victims of the Toyama air raid
- Autumn Grand Festival (early October): A grand autumn festival, expressing gratitude for the harvest
- Shichi-Go-San (November): Celebrating the growth of children
- Great Purification Ceremony (June 30th, December 31st): A Shinto ritual to purify oneself of sins and impurities accumulated over the past six months
The Bustle of New Year’s Visits
Toyama Prefectural Gokoku Shrine is one of the most famous New Year’s visit spots in Toyama City. From New Year’s Day to the third day of the year, many worshippers visit to pray for the New Year. Food stalls are set up on the shrine grounds, creating a lively New Year’s atmosphere.
For those who wish to avoid crowds, visiting early in the morning or after sunset is recommended. Also, New Year’s visits are possible even after the first three days of the year, so those who wish to visit at a more leisurely pace may want to consider a different time of year.
Access and Basic Information
Location
Address: 1-1 Isobe-cho, Toyama City, Toyama Prefecture
Located near the central business district of Toyama City, it boasts excellent accessibility.
Transportation Access
Public Transportation:
- Approximately 20 minutes on foot from JR Toyama Station
- Approximately 5 minutes on foot from the “Annoya” tram stop on the Toyama Chihō Railway
- Immediately after alighting at the “Gokoku Jinja-mae” bus stop on the Toyama Chihō Railway bus
By Car:
- Approximately 15 minutes from the “Toyama IC” on the Hokuriku Expressway
- Parking available on the shrine grounds (free, approximately 100 spaces)
The parking lot becomes crowded on days when the flea market is held, so using public transportation is recommended.
Visiting Hours and Fees
- Visiting Hours: Grounds are freely accessible (Shrine office is open from approximately 9:00 to 17:00)
- Admission Fee: Free
- Ihokan Museum: Free (Please check opening hours)
Contact Information
For detailed information and reservations for prayers, please contact Toyama Prefectural Gokoku Shrine via their official website or by phone.
Nearby Tourist Attractions
Toyama Castle Ruins Park
Toyama Castle Ruins Park, located within walking distance of Toyama Prefectural Gokoku Shrine, is a symbol of Toyama City. The Toyama Castle keep (a replica) houses the Toyama City Local History Museum, where you can learn about Toyama’s history. It is also known as a famous cherry blossom viewing spot in spring, and can be enjoyed along with the cherry trees lining the Matsukawa River.
Matsukawa River Cruise
Cruise boats operate on the Matsukawa River, which flows around Toyama Castle Ruins Park. Especially popular during cherry blossom season, the cherry blossoms viewed from the water are exceptionally beautiful. Combined with a visit to Toyama Prefectural Gokoku Shrine, you can fully enjoy Toyama’s nature and history.
Toyama Glass Museum
Located in front of Toyama Station, the Toyama Glass Museum is situated within “TOYAMA Kirari,” a complex designed by world-renowned architect Kengo Kuma. It exhibits masterpieces of contemporary glass art and has become a new cultural hub for Toyama.
The Preciousness of Peace Conveyed by Toyama Prefectural Gokoku Shrine
Toyama Prefectural Gokoku Shrine is more than just a tourist spot. It is a place that enshrines the spirits of those who died in war, reminding us that today’s peace is built upon their sacrifices.
Standing on the shrine grounds, one cannot help but reflect on each of the 28,679 war dead—each with their loving family, dreams, and future. The wills and personal belongings displayed at the Ihokan Museum quietly but powerfully convey the tragedy of war and the preciousness of life.
The victims of the Toyama air raid enshrined at the Isa-Yushi Shrine demonstrate that war inflicts immense suffering not only on soldiers but also on civilians. The fact that over 2,000 lives were lost in just over two hours of air raids vividly illustrates the horrors of war.
By visiting this shrine, we, living in the modern age, can reaffirm the preciousness of peace and renew our resolve to never repeat war. Especially for younger generations, who have not experienced war, it is crucial to learn about history and reflect on peace in places like this.
A Shrine Beloved by the Community
The Toyama Prefectural Gokoku Shrine functions not only as a place of remembrance but also as a center of the local community. The monthly flea market is more than just a place to shop; it’s a place where people gather and interact.
Many residents of Toyama Prefecture have a connection with the shrine through life’s milestones such as New Year’s visits, Shichi-Go-San (a traditional rite of passage for children), and exorcisms. It is also a place of relaxation where people can enjoy the changing seasons, from cherry blossoms in spring to ginkgo trees in autumn.
In this way, Toyama Prefectural Gokoku Shrine is deeply loved by the people of Toyama Prefecture as a place that inherits the memories of the past, is close to the lives of people today, and fosters hope for the future.
Summary
Toyama Prefectural Gokoku Shrine is a historical and traditional shrine located in Isobe-cho, Toyama City, Toyama Prefecture. It enshrines 28,679 war dead and is revered as the guardian deity of Toyama Prefecture. The shrine grounds include the Isa-Yushi Shrine, the Iho-kan (a museum dedicated to the war dead), and a sumo wrestling ring, offering plenty to see.
The “Flea Market,” held on the first Sunday of every month, is a large-scale event with approximately 180 stalls and attracts many people. You can enjoy the beautiful scenery of each season, from cherry blossoms in spring to ginkgo trees in autumn.
It’s easily accessible from the center of Toyama City, and can be visited in conjunction with nearby tourist attractions such as Toyama Castle Park. Admission to the shrine is free, and the memorial hall is also free to visit.
This shrine serves as a place to commemorate and express gratitude to those who died in war, and to offer prayers for peace. It is also a central hub of the local community, deeply rooted in the lives of the people of Toyama Prefecture. It’s an important spot that you should definitely visit when you come to Toyama.
