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Kushida Shrine
Photo: Wikimedia Commons
poi · JP

Kushida Shrine

Getting around: In central Hakata, about a 5-10 minute walk from Gion or Nakasu-Kawabata subway stations.
Hours: Grounds open roughly 4am-10pm daily; free to enter, small fee for the treasure hall.

Kushida Shrine is Hakata's guardian shrine, founded in the 8th century and best known as the starting point and spiritual home of the Hakata Gion Yamakasa festival each July, when teams race ornately decorated floats through the streets. One of the festival's massive decorative floats is on permanent display in the shrine's treasure hall year-round.

The compact grounds also hold a giant ginkgo tree said to be over 1,000 years old and a small torii believed to bring longevity if walked through in a figure-eight pattern.

Kushida Shrine FAQs

What is the Yamakasa festival?

Hakata Gion Yamakasa is a centuries-old July festival where teams race huge decorated floats through the streets; Kushida Shrine is its ceremonial center.

Can I see a Yamakasa float outside festival season?

Yes, a permanent display float stands in the shrine's treasure hall year-round.

Is there an admission fee?

The shrine grounds are free; a small fee applies to the treasure hall.

How old is the shrine?

It was founded in 757, making it one of Hakata's oldest shrines.

How long does a visit take?

About 20-30 minutes.

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