Kyoto Ryozen Gokoku Shrine

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Facts & Figures

The Kyoto Ryozen Gokoku Shrine was founded to honor the heroes of Japan, which had a unique impact on the future of the country. This Shinto Shrine is focusing mainly on people from the Bakumatsu period (1853 - 1867) and the Meiji Restoration (1868 - 1877). These patriots, like Sakamoto Ryoma (1836 - 1867) and his alley Nakaoka Shintaro (1838 - 1867), fought intensely and died for the modernisation of Japan. 73011 of them found its resting place at this shrine. When you walk up the hill you will see many tombstones, cenotaphs and rocks. Maybe because of the more serious theme of the shrine the whole area was less crowded than other important sightseeing spots in Kyoto.

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• Kyoto Ryozen Gokoku Shrine:
• Opening Hours - 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
• Closed - no closing days
• Admission Fee - 300 yen (Adults), 200 yen (Elementary and middle school)

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History

Kyoto Ryozen Gokoku Shrine was built in 1868. It was dedicated for the samurai who lost their lives when the transition happened from the Tokugawa Shogunate (1603 - 1868) to the Meiji Emperor or in other words the transition from a feudal samurai state to a democracy. Kyoto Ryozen Gokoku Shrine was the first one of the so called Shokonsha Shrine which were later in 1939 renamed to Gokoku Shrines. It was the start of a series of shrines in the prefectures to honor those who died on the battle fields. These Gokoku Shrines are all branches of the Yasukuni Shrine in Tokyo.

Sightseeing spots

Top:

Grave of Sakamoto Ryoma (1836 - 1867) - His grave can be found right on top of the hill overlooking Kyoto. He was one of the leaders to fight against the Tokugawa Shogunate.

Grave of Nakaoka Shintaro (1838 - 1867) - He fought together with his best friend Sakamoto Ryoma against the Tokugawa Shogunate. They were both assassinated in the so called Omiya incident in Kyoto.

Monument of Radhabinod Pal (1886 - 1967) - He was an Indian jurist and judge during the Tokyo Trials in 1946.

Tomb of Kido Takayoshi (1833 - 1877) - Kido Takayoshi was a samurai and Japanese statesman, who belonged to one of the three great nobles (Ishin-no-Sanketsu) who led the Meiji Restoration.

Festival & Events (dates can change without notice)

March

Higashiyama Hanatouro Festival (Early - Mid March)
The illumination of local temples and roads by thousands of lanterns in the Higashiyama neighbourhood last for 10 days and starts at 6pm until 9:30pm. It is an unforgettable experience.

April

Miyako Odori (1st - 31th)
The traditional annual spring dance of the Kyoto district Gion Kobu performed by Geiko and Maiko is a must-see on your Kyoto visit. Don't miss the most popular dances the Miyako Odori "Cherry Blossom Dances" or "Dances of the Old Capital" at the Gion Kobu Kaburenjo Theater (located close to Gion Corner).

May

Aoi Matsuri (15th)
The highlight of this festival is a large parade from Imperial Palace through Shimogamo Shrine to the Kamigamo Shrine. More than 500 people wearing aristocratic costumes from the Heian Period (794 - 1185). The Aoi Matsuri belongs with the Gion Matsuri and Jidai Matsuri to the three most famous festivals in Kyoto.

Shoukiku-sai Festival at Kyoto Ryozen Gokoku Shrine (26th)
The festival is held to commemorate the anniversary of the death of Kido Takayoshi (1833 - 1877). He is considered as one of the three great nobles who led the Meiji Restoration.

July

Gion Matsuri (whole month)
The month July is full of different events like the Yoiyama - Kyoto's Magical Night (locals in kimonos look at the giant Gion floats the day before the parade) or the famous Yamaboko Junko (float procession on the 17th of July).

October

Jidai Matsuri ("Festival of Ages") (22nd)
People celebrate with a large parade between Imperial Palace to Heian Shrine the anniversary of the foundation of Kyoto. App. 2000 participants wearing historical costumes from different time periods. Enjoy this great festival which last around 2 hours.

November

Birth of Sakamoto Ryoma at Ryozen Gokoku Shrine (15th)
Every year on the 15th of November is a festival held to celebrate the birth of samurai Sakamoto Ryoma and his influence and spirit.