Kushida Shrine: Guardian of Hakata

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

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Kushida

Kushida Shrine, affectionately called 'Okushida-san' by locals, is a historic Shinto shrine in Fukuoka's Hakata district, founded in 757 AD. Dedicated to the gods Ohatanushi-no-mikoto, Amaterasu-omikami, and Susanowo-no-mikoto, it has been a spiritual center for centuries and is famous for hosting the Hakata Gion Yamakasa festival.

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

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Kushida.

Visit during the Hakata Gion Yamakasa festival in July to witness the thrilling float race and experience the city's energy.
Look for the 1,000-year-old ginkgo tree, a designated cultural property of Fukuoka Prefecture, and offer a prayer for good health.
If visiting between mid-January and early February, pass through the large Otafuku mask for good luck.
Enjoy the tranquility of the shrine grounds as a break from the city.

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Getting There

Subway

Kushida Shrine is easily accessible by subway. From Hakata Station, take the Kuko Line (Airport Line) one stop to Gion Station. From Tenjin Station, take the Kuko Line two stops to Gion Station. The shrine is approximately a 5-minute walk from Exit 2 of Gion Station. Subway fare is approximately 200 JPY.
Walking

Kushida Shrine is located in central Fukuoka, making it easily accessible on foot from nearby attractions. It's an 8-minute walk from Canal City Hakata. From Nakasu-Kawabata Station, it is also about an 8-minute walk. Follow the signs and enjoy the stroll through the city.
Taxi

Taxis are readily available in Fukuoka. From Hakata Station, a taxi ride to Kushida Shrine takes about 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic. The estimated fare is around 800-1200 JPY. Note that fares may increase during late-night hours.

Discover more about Kushida

Kushida Shrine, nestled in the heart of Fukuoka's Hakata district, is a revered Shinto shrine with a rich history dating back to 757 AD. Known locally as 'Okushida-san,' it serves as the guardian shrine of Hakata and is dedicated to three deities: Ohatanushi-no-mikoto, Amaterasu-omikami, and Susanowo-no-mikoto.The shrine's origins are linked to Emperor Koken's reign and Tairano Kiyomori's designation of Hakata port as a hub for Japan-China trade. The main building was rebuilt in 1585 with contributions from Toyotomi Hideyoshi during the Hakata restoration. Kushida Shrine is the focal point of the Hakata Gion Yamakasa festival, a vibrant summer event featuring towering decorative floats. One of these floats is on permanent display, offering a glimpse of the festival's grandeur year-round.Within the shrine grounds, visitors can find a sacred ginkgo tree, believed to be over 1,000 years old, and stones said to be from the Mongol invasion. A large Otafuku mask is displayed during the Setsubun festival (mid-January to early February), and it is believed that passing through the mouth of the mask brings good fortune. Visitors can also purify themselves at the fountain and pray for business prosperity and long life. The shrine is wheelchair accessible and provides a tranquil escape from the bustling city center.