Kushida Shrine is one of Fukuoka’s oldest and most revered Shinto shrines. Founded by Emperor Kōken in 757 AD and restored by Toyotomi Hideyoshi in 1587, it functions as the tutelary shrine of Hakata, earning the love and respect of local residents who call it "O-Kushida-san."

The main deities enshrined here are Ohatanushi no Mikoto, Amaterasu-Omikami (the Sun Goddess), and Susanowo-no-Mikoto (the God of storms), believed to bring business prosperity and longevity. Key highlights include:

• Reisentsuru Well: A sacred well said to bring vitality and long life.

• Ginkgo Tree: Over 1,000 years old, symbolizing health and longevity.

• Otafuku Mask: Japan’s largest mask of the Goddess of Happiness, displayed during Setsubun and special occasions.

• Kazariyama Floats: Extravagantly decorated festival floats that can be viewed year-round within the shrine grounds (except June).

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 Annual Festivals:

• A 5-minute walk from Gion Station or Nakasu-Kawabata Station.

• Arrive early during the Hakata Gion Yamakasa Festival (July 1–15) to witness the Oiyama race.

• Wear comfortable shoes; streets are crowded and hard during festivals.

• Kazariyama floats are viewable year-round except June.

Admission fee: 

• Free

Opening time:

• Shrine grounds: 04:00 – 22:00 / Shrine office: 09:00 – 17:00