Kochi Gokoku-jinja Shrine

　　Gokoku-jinja Shrines are often seen across Japan. At least more than 40 shrines exist, but they might not be well known abroad. Accurately and literally translated, Gokoku-jinja means "guardian of the state shrine", or "a shrine for the war dead", i.e., it's for honoring the war dead and praying for divine protection.
　　I was asked to work at a hospital in Kochi prefecture today and visited Kochi Gokoku-jinja Shrine before work. The shrine was deeply quiet in a little chilly air. Several monuments to the dead were built. I put my hands together at every monument.