Hiroshima Gokoku Shrine is located in Naka Ward, Hiroshima City, within the grounds of Hiroshima Castle. It primarily enshrines approximately 92,000 spirits, including those from the western part of Hiroshima Prefecture (former Aki Province) who died in wars from before World War II until its end, as well as mobilized student laborers, members of the Women’s Volunteer Corps, and others who perished in the atomic bombing of Hiroshima.
Originally part of Hiroshima City Central Park (Hiroshima Castle area), the shrine’s grounds were separated from the park in 1956 to establish it as an independent religious site. As one of the most important places of worship in central Hiroshima, Hiroshima Gokoku Shrine is among the most visited shrines in the Chugoku region during hatsumode (New Year’s shrine visits), attracting over 500,000 visitors between January 1 and 7 each year. Its convenient location also makes it a popular spot for Hiroshima residents to welcome the New Year.
The shrine is also well-known for its connection with the local professional baseball team, the Hiroshima Toyo Carp. Before the start of spring training each year, the team typically visits the shrine together to pray for victory, making it one of the representative events where local sports and religious traditions intersect.
