Gokoku Shrine Niigata ⛩️🇯🇵

#timetotravel This shrine surrounded by a pine tree forest is a 20-minute drive from Niigata Chuo Interchange. It was founded in 1868 in Tokiwaoka, Niigata City (currently the Niigata University Faculty of Medicine in Ichibancho, Asahimachi, Chuo Ward, Niigata City) as a shrine dedicated to the spirits of the war dead. A municipal promenade has been built next to the grounds of the shrine, making it a popular place for a walk. The shrine holds thrice-monthly festivals on the 1st, 8th, and 15th of each month. During the festivals, the shrine's priests make ritual prayers to calm the divine spirits and wish for renewed tranquility and health. The shrine hosts kyudo (Japanese archery), youth sumo, setsudando (a form of swordsmanship), jukendo (bayonet fighting), and kenmaido (sword dance) competitions. One of its most popular events is the kodomo mikoshi (a portable shrine carried by children), which is held on Children's Day every year.