Kato Shrine

Kato Shrine is a shrine within Kumamoto Castle in Kumamoto City, enshrining Kato Kiyomasa. With about 400,000 New Year’s visitors, it is a major local place of worship. Because it is inside the castle grounds, many people visit it together with nearby Shirahige Shrine as a set. The solemn atmosphere can calm your mind during travel. It is known for blessings such as victory prayers, academic success, business prosperity, and recovery from illness, and many people visit daily. A notable feature is its unusual sacred tree that splits partway up, which is worth seeing. The shrine’s original goshuin-cho (stamp book) is also very cool, and the goshuin itself is said to be beautifully done. Kumamoto Castle is currently under restoration, and the shrine is also known as one of the closest places to view the ongoing repair work. The scenery is said to be excellent, and you may see wedding photo shoots. Events take place year-round. Access: take the tram to Kumamotojo/Shiyakusho-mae, then walk about 12 minutes.