Saga Shrine (佐嘉神社)

Flow of the course

About this spot

A shrine dedicated to Nabeshima Naomasa, the 10th daimyo of the Saga clan, renowned as a wise lord of the late Edo period, and his successor, the 11th daimyo Naomasa Naooki. Lord Naomasa is still beloved by citizens today as a pioneering figure in Japan's modernization, having overseen the construction of reverberatory furnaces and introduced vaccination. Within the shrine grounds, eight shrines gather, including Matsubara Shrine, and the "Eight Shrine Pilgrimage"—visiting each shrine in order—is popular for its blessing of fulfilling great wishes. The grounds also display replica cannons including a Canon cannon and an Armstrong cannon, manufactured by the Saga clan, allowing visitors to feel the progress of Saga as a town of science and technology. The lush grove facing the moat is refreshingly fitting as the beginning of a castle town stroll.

Tips

The Eight Shrine Pilgrimage takes about 30 minutes even at a leisurely pace. The locations of each shrine can be confirmed on a guide map at the grounds. If you wish to receive a shrine stamp, note the reception hours of the shrine office. The early morning after opening is quieter and allows for peaceful worship.

Best time to visit

Approximately 45 minutes required. The crisp morning air shortly after opening is refreshingly clear.

Access & map

〒840-0831 Saga Prefecture, Saga City, Matsubara 2-chome, 10-43