Hakata's Principal Tutelary Shrine with Soaring Decorative Yamakasa Floats
About this spot
Known affectionately as "O-Kusshida-san," this shrine is the principal tutelary shrine of Hakata and is recognized nationwide as the place where the spirited summer Hakata Gion Yamakasa Festival is dedicated. The shrine grounds display a gorgeously ornate decorative yamakasa float towering over 10 meters high year-round, allowing visitors to stand beneath these intricate puppet figurines—which recreate famous scenes from kabuki and classical tales—even outside the festival season. The main gate's roof features sculptures of the Wind God and Thunder God, and the grounds are rich with other points of interest including a zodiac directional compass and an ancient ginkgo tree. As a shrine that has long drawn faithful believers seeking commercial prosperity and longevity, it is the perfect starting point for your old downtown stroll.
Tips
During the yamakasa season and Shichigosan (children's celebration) weekends, the shrine can be crowded with visitors, so an early morning visit allows for a more relaxed experience. The decorative yamakasa may not be on display during display rotation periods, so check ahead if this is a must-see. The shrine grounds are paved with stone, so comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
Best time to visit
Plan for approximately 50 minutes. The early morning hours are recommended, when there are fewer visitors and you can contemplate the soaring yamakasa floats in peace.
Access & map
〒812-0026 Fukuoka Prefecture, Fukuoka City, Hakata Ward, Kamikawahabata-machi 1-41
Model course featuring this spot
Hakata: A Stroll Through the Old Downtown—Kushida Shrine and Yamakasa Festival Town with Canal City
Fukuoka
Explore features & model courses
Like this spot? Sign up free to save it to your own booklet as a plan or a want-to-go.