Hakodate Gokoku Shrine - Hokkaido

Hakodate Gokoku Shrine (函館護国神社) is a shrine dedicated to those who died in the Boshin War particularly those who perished in the Battle of Hakodate. It is also considered one of the main shrines of the city. It is located at 9-23 Aoyagicho in Hakodate City, in Hokkaido Prefecture, Japan.

Hakodate Gokoku Shrine

Hakodate Gokoku Shrine Details

The Hakodate Gokoku Shrine stands as a testament to Japan’s historical resilience and cultural heritage. This shrine has witnessed over a century of historical milestones, commemorations, and transformations, making it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and cultural travelers. 

Hakodate Gokoku Shrine - Hakodate City, Hokkaido Prefecture

Hakodate Gokoku Shrine traces its origins to the Boshin War, with its roots tied to the Battle of Hakodate, the final conflict between the new government forces and the former Shogunate forces. Following the war's conclusion on May 17, 1869, an altar was set up at Omorihama to honor the fallen soldiers. By September 1869, a permanent shrine was established at its current location, and a grand three-day ceremony marked its inauguration. Initially named the Hakodate Shokonsha, it was designated an official Shokonsha shrine in Meiji 7 (1874) under the Hokkaido Development Commission.

To reach the torii gate of Hakodate Gokoku Shrine, you will need to walk up a few steps.

Hakodate Gokoku Shrine's torii gate

Route 675 and Hakodate City as seen from Hakodate Gokoku Shrine

In 1939, as part of the Ministry of Home Affairs' ordinance, the shrine was renamed Hakodate Gokoku Shrine, reflecting its elevated status. Major renovations, led by a dedicated Construction Support Association, transformed the grounds, with the completion of new shrine facilities by 1942. 

Hakodate Gokoku Shrine's Main Hall

Despite enduring challenges such as the typhoon damage in 1954, the shrine’s resilience ensured its continuous restoration and upkeep. The shrine has also hosted members of Japan's Imperial Family. Notable visits include those of the then Crown Prince (Emperor Akihito) in 1958, Princess Chichibu in 1961, and Princess Takamatsu in 1965. These visits further underscored the shrine's national significance.

Hakodate Gokoku Shrine grounds

函館護国神社

Memorial monument for the soldiers who died in the South Pacific region, West Irian, East New Guinea, and the Solomon Islands during the Pacific War

Nade Fukuro (なでふくろう)

Numerous omikuji are displayed in Hakodate Gokoku Shrine

Kameishi of Takadaya monument

Monument to "Dedication to the Earth"

Monument to the children's song "Tulip"

Hakodate Gokoku Shrine chozuya

As part of its 120th anniversary in 1990, the shrine underwent extensive restoration, including the replacement of its iconic torii gate and the construction of new facilities. Over the years, leadership transitions have maintained the shrine’s operations and heritage, with the most recent change occurring in 2019, appointing Ohashi Yukio as chief priest. Today, the Hakodate Gokoku Shrine is not just a historical monument but a spiritual sanctuary where visitors can pay their respects to Japan’s past. Its serene grounds, rich history, and cultural importance make it a top destination in Hakodate.

Team Nicerio visits Hakodate Gokoku Shrine

My family and I visited Hakodate Gokoku Shrine last April 2, 2023, during the second day of our 3-day Birthday Road Trip. It was my 517^th day in Japan as an ALT under the JET Programme. I made it a point to include this shrine in our itinerary as part of our Hokkaido 179 challenge to visit a shrine in every municipality that we visited in the prefecture. During our visit, my daughter and I did our tradition of paying respects by offering prayers. Aside from that, we also made a wish before leaving the shrine grounds.

Hakodate Gokoku Shrine Admission Fee

It’s FREE to enter and explore the Hakodate Gokoku Shrine grounds.

Hakodate Gokoku Shrine Operating Hours

Hakodate Gokoku Shrine is open from 9 AM to 4 PM.

 

Why visit the Hakodate Gokoku Shrine?

Whether you're a history enthusiast or simply looking for a peaceful retreat, Hakodate Gokoku Shrine offers a unique glimpse into Japan's storied past. Be sure to include this iconic site in your Hakodate itinerary.

Getting to Hakodate Gokoku Shrine

 

There are various ways to get to Hakodate Gokoku Shrine, and this is the route I'm familiar with:

From Hakodate Station, exit and walk to the Hakodate Asaichi-mae bus stop. Take Bus No. 3 heading to Hakodate Sta.-Mae bus stop. Then, alight at the Ropeway-mae bus stop. From there, it's just a short walk to Hakodate Gokoku Shrine.

Travel time: 15 minutes

Fare: 250 yen

Ratings

Crowd

Cleanliness

Overall rating