The Gokoku Shrine in Nagano Prefecture, Nagano-ken Gokoku Shrine (長野縣護國神社), is located in Matsumoto. I visited there when I went to Matsumoto for a live concert.
Gokoku shrines are scattered throughout Japan, many of which were established as soul-restoring shrines to honor those who died in the Boshin War. In general, those who died in battle or as martyrs after the Boshin War, and were originally from the respective prefectures, are enshrined. The Nagano Prefecture Gokoku Shrine is also known for being visited by Emperor Showa and Empress Kojun in 1964.
Shinshu University’s campus is nearby, and it’s about a one-hour walk from Matsumoto Station. Alternatively, you can take a bus from the castle exit and get off at the “Oiwake” bus stop, which takes about 30 minutes.
As I passed through the first torii gate, rows of dense trees lined the approach, and despite the hot weather, I felt a cool breeze.
The temperature felt about two degrees lower, and despite being in August, hydrangeas were still blooming in the shade.
Next to the second torii gate, there’s a signboard explaining the shrine’s history, stating that the temporary shrine hall was built in 1938 and that the shrine was designated as a “Betsubyo Shrine” by the Shrine Agency in 1957.
Chozuya (water purification basin)
The second torii gate was damaged in a typhoon in 2017 and was later rebuilt through donations. I had thought it would look newer, but it was quite darkened.
The shrine was preparing for the annual event on August 15, the day of Japan’s World War II surrender.
Worship hall
Next to the shrine hall, there’s a large wooden ema (votive tablet) about 2.3 meters high and 3.7 meters wide. The design changes each year to reflect the zodiac animal of that year.
The goshuin (temple seal) at Nagano Prefecture Gokoku Shrine is very cute, featuring a colorful design. Although there are regular goshuin available, the colorful ones are unique to this shrine and not seen at other Gokoku shrines. The goshuin can be obtained on the left side of the shrine hall. To prevent the ink from bleeding onto the next page, you are also given a cute paper or bookmark.
The waiting room was air-conditioned, making it a comfortable place to wait.
About
Name Nagano Gokoku shrine (長野縣護國神社)
URL Website, Instagram
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