Kushida Shrine

Shrine

Prefecture

Fukuoka

Type

Shrine

N/A

1 review

Free

Entry Fee

Free Entry Train Access

About This Destination

Hakata's central shrine and starting point of the famous Hakata Gion Yamakasa festival, with a year-round decorated festival float on display.

Kushida Shrine is the most important shrine in the Hakata district of Fukuoka, affectionately called Okushida-san by locals. Founded in 757 AD, the shrine is the spiritual home of the Hakata Gion Yamakasa festival, one of Japan's most exciting summer festivals held every July, where teams of men race through the streets carrying enormous decorated floats weighing over a ton. A large decorated yamakasa float is on permanent display in the shrine grounds year-round. The shrine is also known for its distinctive ginkgo tree, believed to be over 1,000 years old, and its collection of anchor stones from Mongol invasion ships. Located in the heart of the Kawabata shopping arcade area, it is a natural starting point for exploring Hakata's old town.

Location

Prefecture: Fukuoka

Address: Fukuoka, Japan

Nearest Station: Gion Station

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Visitor Information

Credit Cards: Unknown

Food Options: No on-site dining. Kawabata shopping arcade adjacent to the shrine has numerous street food vendors and the nearby yatai stalls are famous.

Official Website

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Hakata Gion Yamakasa festival?

Held July 1-15 annually, teams of men race through Hakata carrying enormous decorated floats weighing over a ton. The climax on July 15th (4:59 AM) sees seven floats race a 5km course. Kushida Shrine is the festival's spiritual center and finish line.

Can I see a yamakasa float outside of festival season?

Yes! Kushida Shrine displays a large decorated yamakasa float year-round in a special hall on the shrine grounds. You can see the intricate craftsmanship up close any time you visit.

How do I get to Kushida Shrine?

Take the subway to Gion Station (Exit 2) and walk 5 minutes. Alternatively, it's a 15-minute walk from Hakata Station through the Kawabata shopping arcade. The shrine is at the heart of old Hakata.