Munakata Taisha

Map

History & Origins

The three Munakata goddesses appear in the Nihon Shoki and the Kojiki and received deep reverence from the ancient state as guardians of sea voyages. On Okinoshima, where Okitsunomiya stands, state rituals were held from the late 4th century to the end of the 9th century, and the island was regarded as a key to exchange with the continent. The many votive offerings excavated from Okinoshima are designated National Treasures, and the island is also called the 'Shosoin of the Sea'.

Highlights

Of the three shrines, the Treasure Hall (Shinpokan) at Hetsunomiya displays about 80,000 votive offerings excavated from Okinoshima, including National Treasures. Okinoshima, where Okitsunomiya stands, is still regarded as an island where the gods dwell, and landing there is prohibited for the general public, preserving its sacred atmosphere. At the autumn festival (October), the 'Miare Matsuri' is held, in which a fleet of portable shrine boats crosses the Genkai Sea.

Visitor Guide

Hetsunomiya can be reached in about 15 minutes by bus from Togo Station on the JR Kagoshima Main Line. Nakatsunomiya (Oshima) is about 25 minutes by ferry from Kominato Port. Landing on Okinoshima (Okitsunomiya) is prohibited to the general public. An admission fee is charged for the Treasure Hall.

Best Season

The autumn festival and Miare Matsuri period, October 1-3, is especially worth seeing. May-June, with fresh greenery, is also beautiful, and the approach to Hetsunomiya overlooking the sea is pleasant for a walk.

Blessings

Annual Events

• October

  Miare Matsuri and Shuki Taisai (Miare Festival and Autumn Grand Festival)

  Held on October 1–3. On the 1st, the Miare Matsuri is held, in which a fleet of portable shrine boats crosses Genkai Nada sea to welcome the divine spirits of the three Munakata goddesses from Okitsumiya and Nakatsumiya to Hetsumiya.

• April

  Shunki Taisai (Spring Grand Festival)

  A spring grand festival held on April 1–3. Thanks are given to the three goddesses, and prayers are offered for the safety of sea transport.

Travel Plan

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