58 Tōrihoka-machi, Kurume, Fukuoka Prefecture
Rating
Cost per person
¥500
Gokoku Shrine, located in Kurume, Fukuoka, is dedicated to the gods of the five grains, ensuring bountiful harvests. Founded by Lord Arima Yoriyasu of the Kurume Domain to pray for relief from famine, the shrine is also closely linked to Tanaka Hisashige, the founder of Toshiba, also known as 'Karakuri Giemon,' who showcased his mechanical dolls here. Adjacent to Kurume Central Park, the shrine features a serene atmosphere with stone torii gates and a beautiful arched bridge. The 'Gogaku no Mori' (Local Learning Forest) within the grounds displays bronze statues of notable figures from Kurume, including Inoue Den and Shojiro Ishibashi, founder of Bridgestone. Visit to appreciate the blend of agricultural heritage and local ingenuity.