Kusunoki Masashige
楠木正成
Loyal retainer of Emperor Go-Daigo (c.1294–1336); model of samurai loyalty; died at the Battle of Minato River
About
Kusunoki Masashige (c.1294–1336) is revered as the model of absolute samurai loyalty in Japanese history. He served Emperor Go-Daigo with unwavering devotion throughout the fall of the Kamakura shogunate and the Kenmu Restoration. When Ashikaga Takauji turned against Go-Daigo, Masashige advised withdrawal but nevertheless fought and died at the Battle of Minatogawa in 1336, refusing to surrender even knowing the battle was lost.
His words to his son before the battle—'I wish I could be reborn seven times to fight for my lord'—became the archetype of samurai loyalty. He is enshrined at Minatogawa Shrine in Kobe (Hyogo) and honored by the bronze statue outside the Imperial Palace in Tokyo. He is venerated as a patron of loyalty, courage, and devoted service.
Family Relationships
Children
Shrines Dedicated to This Deity
| Shrine | Prefecture | Network Role |
|---|---|---|
| Minatogawa Shrine 湊川神社 | Hyogo |
Frequently Asked Questions
Information provided by Jinja DB Editorial Team
Who is Kusunoki Masashige in Japanese mythology?
Kusunoki Masashige (楠木正成) is Loyal retainer of Emperor Go-Daigo (c.1294–1336); model of samurai loyalty; died at the Battle of Minato River. This deity appears in Historical and is enshrined at 1 shrines across Japan.
What shrines are dedicated to Kusunoki Masashige?
There are 1 shrines in our database dedicated to Kusunoki Masashige, including Minatogawa Shrine.
What myths involve Kusunoki Masashige?
Kusunoki Masashige appears in myths from Historical. The deity is known as Loyal retainer of Emperor Go-Daigo (c.1294–1336); model of samurai loyalty; died at the Battle of Minato River.