Kushida Shrine, Fukuoka Travel Guide

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Explore Fukuoka's spiritual heart at Kushida Shrine, home to the Hakata Gion Yamakasa festival and ancient cultural treasures.

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Kushida Shrine

Kushida Shrine, affectionately called 'Okushida-san' by locals, is a revered Shinto shrine in Fukuoka's Hakata district. Founded in 757, it's known for its historical significance, beautiful architecture, and as the focal point of the Hakata Gion Yamakasa festival.

A brief summary to Kushida Shrine

1-41 Kamikawabatamachi, Fukuoka, Kamikawabatamachi, Hakata Ward, Fukuoka, 812-0026, JP
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Monday 9 am-5 pm
Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
Thursday 9 am-5 pm
Friday 9 am-5 pm
Saturday 9 am-5 pm
Sunday 9 am-5 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

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

Visit outside of the Hakata Gion Yamakasa festival (July 1-15) to avoid crowds, but still see the impressive decorative floats.
Take a moment to appreciate the 1,000-year-old ginkgo tree, a designated cultural property.
Look for the Meoto Iwa stones, a smaller version of the famous 'Wedded Rocks', symbolizing marital harmony.
Explore the surrounding Hakata district, including Canal City Hakata and the Hakata Machiya Folk Museum.
Check the shrine's schedule for traditional performances or smaller festivals that may be taking place during your visit.

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Getting There

Walking

From Canal City Hakata, walk east along the main street (about 8 minutes). Cross the bridge over the river and continue straight. The shrine entrance will be on your left. There are no costs involved.
Public Transport

Take the Fukuoka City Subway Kuko Line to Gion Station or Nakasu-kawabata Station. From Gion Station (Exit 2), it's a 5-minute walk. From Nakasu-kawabata Station, it's also about an 8-minute walk. Subway fare is approximately ¥210-260 depending on the distance.
Taxi

From Hakata Station, a taxi ride to Kushida Shrine is approximately 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic. Expect to pay around ¥700-900. From Tenjin Station, the taxi fare will be similar.

Discover more about Kushida Shrine

Kushida Shrine, a cultural cornerstone of Fukuoka, has been a spiritual center for the Hakata district since its founding in 757. The shrine is dedicated to three deities: Ohatanushi-no-mikoto, Amaterasu-omikami, and Susanowo-no-mikoto. Over the centuries, it has earned the affectionate nickname 'Okushida-san' from locals, a testament to its deep integration into the community.The current main building was rebuilt in 1587 by Toyotomi Hideyoshi during the Hakata restoration. The shrine is famous for hosting the Hakata Gion Yamakasa festival, a thrilling summer event where teams race through the streets carrying massive floats. Except for June, decorative Yamakasa floats are on display throughout the year, offering visitors a glimpse into this vibrant tradition.Within the shrine grounds, a towering ginkgo tree, estimated to be over 1,000 years old, stands as a sacred symbol and a designated cultural property of Fukuoka Prefecture. Other notable features include the Meoto Iwa (夫婦岩), a representation of wedded rocks symbolizing marital bliss, and a stone Otafuku mask believed to bring good fortune to those who pass through its mouth.While drinking from the Reisentsuru no Ido well is currently banned, it was once believed that its waters promoted longevity. The shrine also displays two monumental tablets related to the Mongolian invasions. Visitors may also find smaller rituals and performances taking place at the shrine, such as the ritual washing of carrying poles or traditional performances on the Noh stage. Depending on the time of year, one may also see the Kawazu-zakura cherry trees in bloom.