Tokachi Gokoku Shrine⛩️ The guardian of the spirit of Obihiro and peace

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Tokachi Gokoku Jinja Shrine, located in Obihiro City, Hokkaido, was founded on November 3, 1906. Originally held for the Soul-Calling Festival, it honored the spirits of nine heroes, including Yago Kiichirō, who died in the Russo-Japanese War. In 1913, it moved to its current location, occupying the former shrine of Obihiro Shrine and becoming known as the "Obihiro Shokonsha." During the Showa era, with the establishment of the Citizens' Association, the Soul-Calling Festival became a major citywide event. Before the war, national flags were even flown throughout the city on that day, creating a grand atmosphere of shared celebration.

After the war, the shrine underwent several name changes: in 1957, it was renamed "Obihiro Gokoku Jinja Shrine," then "Obihiro Heiwa Jinja Shrine" the following year. Finally, in 1964, it was renamed "Tokachi Gokoku Jinja Shrine," with its annual festival held on July 25th, a practice that continues to this day. Today, the shrine enshrines 1,208 pillars, representing war dead and those who contributed to peace from various towns and villages within Obihiro and Tokachi.

The main shrine hall, constructed in the Shinmeizuku style, measures approximately 40.5 tsubo (133.65 m2), while the grounds encompass 3,472 tsubo (11,457.6 m2), creating a solemn and majestic atmosphere. In 1999, the shrine office was rebuilt, further enhancing the shrine's functions. Today, Tokachi Gokoku Jinja Shrine serves not only as a sacred place for commemorating ancestors but also as a symbol of the Tokachi region's desire for peace and tranquility.

📍 Higashi 4-jo Minami 2-chome-1, Obihiro City, Hokkaido
⏰ Regular memorial day: July 25th
🙏 Deities enshrined: 1,208 Obihiro-born war dead and those who contributed to peace

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Post by Jason906 | Sep 24, 2025