Tanabata-jinja, Shinto shrine in Japan
Tanabata-jinja is a Shinto shrine in Ogōri, Fukuoka prefecture, featuring a simple wooden torii gate and modest main building nestled among trees. The site is dedicated to honoring the goddess Orihime, connected in local tradition to the Chinese legend of a weaver princess.
The shrine was first recorded around the year 730, originating from beliefs in the power of the nearby river. Over centuries, it evolved into a place devoted to the goddess Orihime and her connection to the famous Chinese love story celebrated during the Tanabata festival.
The shrine is closely tied to the Tanabata festival celebrated each year in July or August. During this time, visitors write wishes on paper strips and hang them on bamboo branches to honor the story of the weaver girl and the cowherd.
The shrine is reachable by a 30-minute walk from Ogōri Station and lies near related sites like Oimatsu Shrine. The best time to visit is during the annual Tanabata festival in August, when the grounds come alive with decorations and festive activities.
The shrine is known locally as Tanabata-san, reflecting how regularly the community visits this place. Its location near the river is said to mirror the landscape of China's Han River region, creating an additional connection to the legendary tale.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
