Kushida Shrine

Kushida is a Shinto compound in the Kami-kawabatamachi district with several timber structures, including a main hall and smaller prayer pavilions. Stone lanterns line the pathways, and a central courtyard separates the different building sections.

The site was established in 757 under Emperor Koken and served for centuries as a spiritual center for Hakata. Toyotomi Hideyoshi ordered a comprehensive rebuild in 1587 after earlier conflicts damaged the original buildings.

During Hakata Gion Yamakasa each July, ornately decorated floats are displayed here before teams carry them through the neighborhood. Visitors come throughout the year to take part in prayer rituals and purchase good luck charms from the shrine office.

The grounds are open daily without admission charge and lie at 1-41 Kamikawabata-machi. From Nakasu-kawabata subway station, it takes about eight minutes on foot.

A well called Reisen Tsuru stands within the grounds and supplies water that local tradition credits with cleansing and health-giving properties. Some visitors take small amounts home with them.

Location: Kami-kawabatamachi

Inception: 757

Fee: No

Address: 1-41, Kami-kawabatamachi, Hakata-ku, Fukuoka City 8120026

Opening Hours: Monday-Sunday 04:00-22:00

GPS coordinates: 33.59311,130.41069

Latest update: December 14, 2025 17:21