Hiroshima Shrines

A modern way to attract visitors to a particular shrine or temple is to offer amulets and votive plaques. Each is a representation of the place, meaning it can be a great reminder about where you visited. Some of the amulets and votive plaques available from the shrines and temples of Hiroshima are particularly unique, making them worth seeking out. 1. Gokoku Shrine While you’re visiting Hiroshima Castle, make sure to see Gokoku Shrine, which is on the grounds. The shrine features many references to koi, including two carp statues in the worship hall. In addition to drawing fortune slips (called omikuji), you can purchase a koi holding an omikuji to take home as a charm. 2. Sumiyoshi Shrine At Sumiyoshi Shrine, you’ll find officially-recognized FIFA World Cup amulets. These feature a three-legged crow called Yatagarasu, which is both a god in Shinto mythology and the symbol for the Japanese soccer team. Since the World Cup in Qatar in 2022, more people have been visiting the shrine to pick up an amulet. 3. Atago Shrine You’ll find another sports-based amulet at Atago Shrine. This shrine offers an amulet in the shape of a baseball, which fans can purchase on their…