Kushida Shrine
Fukuoka's spiritual heart since 757 CE, home to the iconic Hakata Gion Yamakasa floats and a serene escape.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Peaceful atmosphere
Kushida Shrine
Best Time
Peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Fukuoka's spiritual heart since 757 CE, home to the iconic Hakata Gion Yamakasa floats and a serene escape.
"An isle of calm inside a bustling city, it amazes me how quiet it was in here!"
🎯 Bow at the Torii Gate
Show respect by bowing once before passing through the torii gate, marking the entrance to sacred ground.
💧 Purify Hands & Mouth
Use the temizuya (water basin) to cleanse your hands and mouth before approaching the main shrine.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Hakata Gion Yamakasa Floats
Main Hall Area
See the magnificent, ornate floats used in Fukuoka's most famous festival. A vibrant display of local tradition.
Main Shrine Hall
Central Courtyard
Admire the intricate Shinto architecture and soak in the spiritual atmosphere of this ancient, well-maintained structure.
Ancient Gingko Tree
Shrine Grounds
Marvel at this majestic, centuries-old gingko tree, a symbol of longevity and resilience within the shrine complex.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Respectful Shrine Etiquette
Timing Your Visit for Tranquility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Bow at the Torii Gate
Show respect by bowing once before passing through the torii gate, marking the entrance to sacred ground.
💧 Purify Hands & Mouth
Use the temizuya (water basin) to cleanse your hands and mouth before approaching the main shrine.
💰 Goshuin Collection
Collect a unique 'goshuin' (shrine seal) as a memento. Bring cash (¥300-¥500) and your goshuin book.
📸 Photo Restrictions
Be mindful of 'no photo' signs, especially in areas with lucky charms or during ceremonies.
10 Day Itinerary Check (Fukuoka + Tokyo) and Yufuin question
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Bow at the Torii Gate
Show respect by bowing once before passing through the torii gate, marking the entrance to sacred ground.
💧 Purify Hands & Mouth
Use the temizuya (water basin) to cleanse your hands and mouth before approaching the main shrine.
💰 Goshuin Collection
Collect a unique 'goshuin' (shrine seal) as a memento. Bring cash (¥300-¥500) and your goshuin book.
📸 Photo Restrictions
Be mindful of 'no photo' signs, especially in areas with lucky charms or during ceremonies.
🚶♀️ Explore Sub-Shrines
Don't miss the smaller, often beautifully decorated sub-shrines scattered throughout the grounds.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Kushida Shrine for its tranquil atmosphere, immaculate grounds, and rich historical significance, offering a peaceful escape in the heart of Hakata. Many appreciate the free admission and the opportunity to see the impressive Hakata Gion Yamakasa floats year-round. Some note that while not vast, its compact size feels intimate and photogenic.
"This place feels like an isle of calm inside a bustling city, it amazes me how quiet it was in here! It feels like being taken back 300 years in time, the buildings were incredible and everyone I saw bowed to the shrines and was very respectful, contributing to the atmosphere. There were many small temples and even a pond with koi fish in it. So far my favourite place in all of Fukuoka!"
Tobias
"Nestled conveniently in the heart of Hakata, the Kushida Shrine is an absolute gem and a must-visit for anyone exploring Fukuoka. As one of the city's oldest shrines, it offers a peaceful escape and a tangible connection to centuries of Japanese culture, all without costing a single yen.
Stepping through the imposing wooden gate, you're immediately struck by the shrine's immaculate condition. The grounds are well-maintained and spotlessly clean, radiating an aura of respect and tranquility. Despite its central location near Gion Station (just a minute's walk from the metro), the atmosphere inside is remarkably peaceful and unhurried. Visiting on a weekend, I was pleasantly surprised to find it uncrowded, allowing for quiet contemplation and easy exploration.
While the shrine complex isn't sprawling, its compact size feels intimate rather than limiting. The main hall and auxiliary buildings are beautiful examples of traditional Shinto architecture, featuring intricate woodwork, gleaming brass, and the distinctive thatched roof of the main hall. Every corner feels highly photogenic, from the majestic ancient gingko tree to the ornate lanterns and the vibrant sub-shrines dotting the grounds.
Informative plaques provide fascinating insights, making it a great place to learn about the region's rich history and spiritual traditions."
sorlo s
"Old and popular shrine around this area.
Even for me, this was the first visit.
The land is not big, but traditional gate, main shrine, etc,
all buildings are well maintained and felt my spirit was cleared during the stay and pray here..
*For lucky charm area, photo shoot is not allowed, so please be careful the warnings.
I'm pretty sure this visit won't disappoint you :)
#tourist spot
#shrine
#tradition culture"
H KNJ
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Kushida Shrine is conveniently located in the heart of Hakata, just a minute's walk from Gion Station on the Fukuoka City Subway Airport Line. It's also easily accessible from Hakata Station, making it a straightforward destination for most visitors.
Yes, Kushida Shrine is very close to the Canal City Hakata shopping complex and the bustling Kawabata Shopping Arcade, making it easy to combine with other sightseeing and shopping.
While it's a bit of a walk (around 15-20 minutes), you can certainly walk from Hakata Station to Kushida Shrine. Alternatively, a short subway ride to Gion Station is recommended.
The most convenient public transport option is the Fukuoka City Subway. Take the Airport Line to Gion Station, and the shrine is just a short walk away.
While there might be limited parking options nearby, it's generally recommended to use public transportation due to the shrine's central location and potential parking challenges.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, admission to Kushida Shrine is free! You can explore the grounds and admire the architecture without any cost, making it an accessible attraction for all.
Kushida Shrine is generally open from early morning until late evening, allowing visitors to experience its atmosphere at various times of the day. Specific hours can vary slightly, but it's typically accessible from around 6 AM to 10 PM.
Yes, you can collect a goshuin (shrine seal) at Kushida Shrine. Make sure to bring your goshuin book and cash (typically ¥300-¥500) for the service.
Photography is generally allowed on the grounds, but be aware of 'no photo' signs in specific areas, such as near lucky charm stalls or during ceremonies.
Absolutely! Due to its compact size and central location, Kushida Shrine is perfect for a quick visit, allowing you to soak in the atmosphere even if you're short on time.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Founded in 757 CE, Kushida Shrine is one of Fukuoka's oldest and most important Shinto shrines. It's the spiritual heart of Hakata and the starting point for the famous Hakata Gion Yamakasa festival.
These are elaborately decorated, massive floats that are paraded through the city during the Hakata Gion Yamakasa festival. You can see some of these impressive floats displayed year-round at Kushida Shrine.
Take time to admire the main shrine hall, the ancient gingko tree, and the Yamakasa floats. Observe the local customs, such as bowing at the torii gate and purifying yourself at the temizuya. +1
Yes, the shrine offers many photogenic spots, from its traditional architecture and ornate lanterns to the vibrant Yamakasa floats and the ancient gingko tree.
Despite its urban location, visitors often describe Kushida Shrine as an 'isle of calm' and a peaceful escape. The well-maintained grounds and respectful visitors contribute to a tranquil ambiance.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
No, there are no restaurants directly within Kushida Shrine itself. However, its central location means you're surrounded by numerous dining options in the Hakata and Gion areas.
You'll find a wide variety of Japanese cuisine near Kushida Shrine, including ramen, udon, tempura, and local Hakata specialties. The nearby Kawabata Shopping Arcade and Canal City Hakata also offer diverse food choices.
It is generally not customary to eat or drink within the sacred grounds of a Shinto shrine. It's best to enjoy your meals in designated areas outside the shrine.
Hakata ramen (tonkotsu ramen) is a must-try in Fukuoka. You can also find delicious mentaiko (spicy cod roe) dishes and motsunabe (offal hot pot) in the vicinity.
Yes, there are convenience stores and small eateries located very close to the shrine, especially along the routes leading from Gion Station or towards the shopping arcades.
📸 📸 Photography
The main shrine hall, the impressive Hakata Gion Yamakasa floats, the ancient gingko tree, and the ornate lanterns are all highly photogenic. The torii gates also make for classic shots.
Drone photography is generally not permitted at religious sites like Kushida Shrine due to privacy concerns and potential disruption. Always check local regulations.
Early mornings or late afternoons offer softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the shrine's serene beauty. The golden hour can create a magical atmosphere.
While you might occasionally witness a wedding procession, it's important to be discreet and avoid intrusive photography during ceremonies to respect the couple and the sacred event.
Don't miss capturing the detail of the Yamakasa floats and the grandeur of the ancient gingko tree. The intricate woodwork on the shrine buildings is also worth photographing.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep little ones engaged by explaining the concept of bowing at the torii gate and the purification ritual at the temizuya. The well-maintained grounds are safe for walking, and the presence of koi fish in any ponds can also be a point of interest. Remember to bring cash if you plan to collect a goshuin as a unique family souvenir.
🚶 Budget Travelers
While the shrine itself is free, consider a small budget for a goshuin (¥300-¥500) if you'd like a unique, personalized souvenir. The surrounding areas offer affordable dining options, from local ramen shops to street food stalls, ensuring you can enjoy Fukuoka's culinary scene without breaking the bank.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding Shinto Shrine Etiquette
Near the entrance, you'll find the temizuya, a water basin for purification. Here, you should wash your hands and mouth. First, take the ladle with your right hand and pour water over your left hand. Then, switch hands and pour water over your right hand. Next, pour water into your cupped left hand and rinse your mouth (do not drink the water directly from the ladle). Finally, hold the ladle vertically to let the remaining water run down the handle, purifying it for the next person.
Remember to maintain a respectful demeanor throughout your visit. Avoid loud conversations and be mindful of ongoing prayers or ceremonies. Observing these simple customs enhances your appreciation for the spiritual significance of the shrine.
The Hakata Gion Yamakasa Festival
The highlight of the festival is the dramatic Oiyama race, where teams of men carry enormous, elaborately decorated floats (called 'yamakasa') through the city streets. These floats are incredibly heavy, weighing up to a ton, and require immense strength and coordination to maneuver. The speed and energy of the race are legendary.
Visitors to Kushida Shrine can see some of these magnificent Hakata Gion Yamakasa floats displayed year-round within the shrine grounds. These impressive structures offer a glimpse into the artistry and dedication involved in this cherished local tradition, even outside of the festival period.
Collecting Goshuin: A Unique Souvenir
At Kushida Shrine, you can purchase a goshuinchō and have your shrine seal collected. The process typically involves presenting your book and a fee, usually between ¥300 and ¥500, which must be paid in cash. It's a beautiful, personalized memento that captures the essence of each sacred site you visit.
It's advisable to bring your goshuinchō with you throughout your travels in Japan, as you might discover temples and shrines unexpectedly. The collection of goshuin is a practice that connects you more deeply with the spiritual journey and the artistry of Japanese calligraphy.
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