Akama Shrine - Shimonoseki

Akama Shrine is a Shinto shrine in Shimonoseki, Yamaguchi Prefecture, dedicated to the child Emperor Antoku, who died in the Battle of Dan-no-ura in 1185. Originally founded in 859 as a Buddhist temple, the site was later converted to a Shinto shrine when Emperor Antoku's spirit was enshrined here following his death. This battle was pivotal in Japanese history as it ended the Genpei War, where the Minamoto clan defeated the rival Taira clan and ended the Taira bid for control of Japan.

The shrine holds profound cultural significance as a memorial to the eight-year-old Emperor Antoku and the fallen members of the Heike clan who perished in the decisive naval battle. The grounds contain a tomb inscribed with the names of 14 members of the Heike clan, along with Emperor Antoku's mausoleum. The site is also famous for its connection to the ghost story Mimi-nashi-Hoichi (Hoichi the Earless), which takes place at the shrine's predecessor temple.

Visitors are immediately struck by the shrine's most distinctive feature: the Suitenmon Gate, a vivid vermillion structure inspired by the mythical Dragon Palace. The shrine's architecture features a large white base supporting the red roof above, creating a striking contrast against the waterfront setting. The shrine is positioned on the waterfront of the Kanmon Strait, offering views between central Shimonoseki and the Karato tourist area.

The shrine's treasure hall displays exhibits and materials related to the Genpei wars, providing historical context for the site's significance. A statue of Hoichi can be viewed for a fee, and the annual Hoichi Festival is held on July 15 with Shinto rituals and biwa performances. The major annual event is the Senteisai festival, which commemorates Emperor Antoku's life and death with memorial services for the Taira clan and ceremonies featuring children in traditional attire.

The shrine is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. with free admission. Entry to the treasure hall requires a 100 yen admission fee. Access is available by taking a bus from either of Shimonoseki's main stations, or by taking the JR Sanyo Line to Shimonoseki Station. The journey from the station involves a 10-minute bus ride to reach this historically significant waterfront shrine.