Kushida Shrine: Guardian Shrine of Hakata

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Discover Fukuoka's spiritual heart at Kushida Shrine, home to ancient traditions, stunning architecture, and the vibrant Hakata Gion Yamakasa festival.

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Kushida Shrine, nestled in Fukuoka's Hakata district, is a historic Shinto shrine founded in 757 AD. Known locally as 'Okushida-san,' it's a spiritual haven and cultural landmark, famous for the Hakata Gion Yamakasa festival and its traditional architecture. Visitors can explore its serene grounds, admire the Kazari Yamakasa float, and experience the heart of Hakata's traditions.

A brief summary to Kushida

Kamikawabatamachi, Fukuoka, Kamikawabatamachi, Hakata Ward, Fukuoka, 812-0026, JP
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Monday 4 am-10 pm
Tuesday 4 am-10 pm
Wednesday 4 am-10 pm
Thursday 4 am-10 pm
Friday 4 am-10 pm
Saturday 4 am-10 pm
Sunday 4 am-10 pm

Local tips

Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and experience a more peaceful atmosphere.
Don't miss the Kazari Yamakasa float, a permanent display offering a glimpse into the Hakata Gion Yamakasa festival.
Purify yourself at the fountain near the entrance before offering prayers for good health and business success.
Look for the giant Otafuku mask and walk through its mouth for good fortune, especially during the Setsubun festival.
Take a moment to appreciate the 1,000-year-old ginkgo tree, a designated cultural property, and offer prayers for longevity.

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Getting There

Public Transport

From Hakata Station, take the Fukuoka City Subway Kuko Line (Airport Line) one stop to Gion Station. The shrine is approximately a 5-minute walk from Exit 2. Subway fare is around ¥200-¥220. Alternatively, from Tenjin Station, take the Kuko Line two stops to Gion Station and follow the same walking directions.
Bus

Several local buses stop near Kushida Shrine. Routes 1, 4, 5, and 6 all have stops at the 'Kushida Jinja-mae' bus stop, which is a short walk to the shrine. Bus fares typically cost around ¥150-¥230 depending on the distance traveled within the city.
Walking

Kushida Shrine is easily accessible on foot from nearby attractions such as Canal City Hakata and Nakasu. From Canal City Hakata, it's approximately an 8-minute walk. From Nakasu, cross the bridge and walk towards the Kawabata commercial district; the shrine will be on your right.
Taxi

Taxis are readily available throughout Fukuoka. A short taxi ride from Hakata Station to Kushida Shrine typically takes only a few minutes and costs approximately ¥900-¥1200. Taxi stands are located near major stations and hotels.
Parking

If driving, parking is available for 100 cars. Parking costs ¥100 for every 20 minutes between 8:00 am and 0:00 am, and ¥100 for every hour between 0:00 am and 8:00 am. The Fukuoka Urban Expressway's Gofukumachi ramp is a 5-minute drive to the shrine.

Discover more about Kushida

Kushida Shrine, located in the heart of Fukuoka's Hakata district, stands as a testament to the city's rich history and cultural heritage. Founded in 757 AD, the shrine has been a spiritual center for the residents of Fukuoka for over a millennium. Dedicated to the gods Ohatanushi-no-mikoto, Amaterasu-omikami, and Susanoo-no-mikoto, it is believed to share a deity with Kushida Shrine of Ise province.The shrine is renowned as the guardian shrine of Hakata, affectionately called 'Okushida-san' by locals. Its current main building was rebuilt in 1587 during the Hakata restoration by Toyotomi Hideyoshi. The grounds feature a 1,000-year-old ginkgo tree, a designated cultural property of Fukuoka Prefecture, and a large Otafuku mask symbolizing happiness.Kushida Shrine is most famous for hosting the Hakata Gion Yamakasa festival, a UNESCO-recognized event held every July. The festival features teams of men racing through the streets carrying elaborately decorated floats. Even outside of the festival, visitors can view a Kazari Yamakasa float on permanent display. Other notable features include stones believed to be from the Mongol invasion and the Reisen-sensei Well, whose waters are believed to grant eternal youth.Throughout the year, Kushida Shrine hosts various traditional events, including the Setsubun festival in February, where visitors throw beans to drive away evil spirits. The shrine is open daily from 4:00 am to 10:00 pm, offering a tranquil escape from the bustling city.