Sumiyoshi Shrine (Fukuoka)
Map
Sumiyoshi Shrine stands in Hakata Ward, Fukuoka, and is a prestigious shrine as the Ichinomiya (foremost shrine) of Chikuzen Province. Its principal deities are the three Sumiyoshi deities, and it is known for blessings of safe voyages and good fortune. Together with Sumiyoshi Taisha in Osaka and Sumiyoshi Shrine in Shimonoseki, it is counted as one of the 'Three Great Sumiyoshi' and is also called one of the head shrines of more than 2,300 Sumiyoshi shrines nationwide.
Shrine Info
- Enshrined Deity
- Sokotsutsuo no Mikoto; Nakatsutsuo no Mikoto; Uwatsutsuo no Mikoto (the three Sumiyoshi deities)
- Founded
- Year of founding unknown (in tradition, remote antiquity)
- Annual Festival
- Sumai-e Taisai (October 12-14)
History & Origins
Its founding is traditionally placed in 'ancient times,' and no specific date is known. The shrine holds that the ancient site of Awagihara, where the Sumiyoshi deities were born, lies in this place. Located in Hakata, which flourished from ancient times as a key point of transport to the continent, it has attracted deep devotion as a guardian deity of navigation and trade.
Highlights
The main hall is designated an Important Cultural Property of Japan and preserves the Sumiyoshi-zukuri style to this day. The Sumai-e Grand Festival is held as the annual festival from October 12 to 14, a traditional Hakata event featuring a children's procession, yabusame (horseback archery) and boys' sumo offerings. Although in the center of the city, the grounds keep a quiet atmosphere.
Visitor Guide
It is about a 10-minute walk from Gion Station on the subway Kuko Line, or about a 15-minute walk from JR Hakata Station. Though in central Hakata, it offers worship in calm grounds.
Best Season
The Sumai-e Grand Festival (October), the annual festival, is when the grounds are liveliest. Cherry blossoms in spring (March to April) also color the grounds.
Annual Events
- October
Sumo-e Taisai (Sumo Grand Festival)
A grand annual festival held October 12–14, a traditional Hakata event at which a children's procession, yabusame and boys' sumo are dedicated.
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