Walk along the approach lined with stone statues of the forty-seven loyal retainers and pray for the fulfillment of great vows
About this spot
This shrine is dedicated to Oishi Kuranosuke Yoshio and the forty-seven loyal retainers of Ako, and is visited by pilgrims from across the country seeking the blessing of "fulfillment of great vows," inspired by the retainers' successful vendetta. The sight of stone statues of loyal warriors lined up on both sides of the approach is awe-inspiring, and even walking with children while reading their names draws you into the world of "The Loyalty Memorial." Within the shrine grounds are the Warriors' Museum, which houses treasures related to the loyal retainers, as well as the long house gate and garden of Oishi's residence. These are places where grandparents naturally find themselves offering animated explanations. It's also recommended to inscribe family wishes on an ema (votive tablet). The Loyalty Warriors Festival held every December 14th enlivens the entire town, making this shrine the perfect starting point for a historical walk through Ako.
Tips
About 15 minutes on foot from JR Banshū-Ako Station; free parking for visitors is available. The grounds are almost flat, so grandparents with mobility concerns and families with strollers can rest assured. The Warriors' Museum and Oishi's garden can be visited for an additional fee, so choose based on your interests and available time. An early morning visit allows you to leisurely view the stone statues without crowds.
Best time to visit
Allow approximately 1 hour. An early morning visit means the approach is less crowded, giving you time to slowly appreciate the warriors' stone statues.
Access & map
〒678-0235 Hyogo Prefecture, Ako City, Kami-Karikaya 131-7
Model course featuring this spot
Ako: Castle Town of the Loyalty Memorial and Cape Ako-Misaki
Hyogo
Explore features & model courses
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