Hyogo Himeji Gokoku Shrine

Hyogo Prefectural Himeji Gokoku Shrine is a memorial shrine in Himeji City, Hyogo Prefecture, dedicated to 56,988 spirits (mitama) from the southwestern region of Hyogo who died in service to the nation from the Boshin War onward. Within Hyogo Prefecture, there is also the Hyogo Prefectural Kobe Gokoku Shrine in Kobe City, which enshrines war dead from the eastern part of the prefecture. Access to Himeji Gokoku Shrine is about a 15-minute walk from JR Sanyo Main Line Himeji Station. The shrine grounds lie just to the right of Himeji Castle’s main gate, within the Naka-kuruwa (middle bailey), an area that was once lined with samurai residences. Once you pass through the torii gate, you are surrounded by greenery, the city’s bustle fades away, and a quiet, serene atmosphere sets in. The main sanctuary stands in front, and to the left are the Shirasagi-no-miya Sanshuden (a wedding hall), the shrine office, and a rest area. “Shirasagi-no-miya” was the shrine name adopted after World War II under GHQ control, as an unavoidable measure to preserve and carry on the shrine. After the San Francisco Peace Treaty came into effect, the shrine restored its current name. Visiting the calm precincts—so different from the often-crowded Himeji Castle area—can be a good way to spend time in quiet reflection.