Shirahige tawara-jinja, Shinto shrine in Japan
Shirahige Tawara-jinja is a small Shinto shrine in Kitsuki with a simple wooden structure and traditional design. The grounds are well-kept but unpretentious, with stone lanterns and trees that create a quiet setting where locals come to pray.
This shrine has served the local community for many centuries as a spiritual place for prayer and ceremonies. Its deep connection to the Doburoku Matsuri festival, which has lasted over 1,300 years, makes it one of the few places in Kyushu where the ancient sake-brewing tradition continues today.
The name Shirahige means white beard and refers to a local legend of a wise man who blessed this place. Visitors leave small offerings, light incense, and ring bells to ask the spirits for blessing in a way that shows how locals connect with the shrine through simple daily rituals.
The shrine is within walking distance from central Kitsuki and makes a good quiet stop while exploring the town's historic streets. Visitors can come anytime, but the most active period is the Doburoku Matsuri festival in October when shuttle buses are available for those needing transportation.
During the Doburoku Matsuri festival, a special unfiltered sake is brewed that is made in only a handful of places across Japan. Visitors can taste the sake freely poured in large amounts, but must finish it once served, a tradition that shows respect for what is considered a sacred offering.
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