Shikaumi Shrine sits on top of the hill along the coast, watching over the island. Since ancient times, the shrine has been called the “head shrine of the sea gods” and has been revered as the guardian deity of Hakata Bay, a strategic point for maritime traffic. The deity of the shrine, Watatsumi Sanshin, is the protector of the bottom, middle and surface of the sea. He is believed to be responsible not only for the safety of maritime traffic, but also for the blessings of the tide and marine products, and to have the power to purify the sea of impurities and misfortune. He is also said to control the life and death of people as he rules over water and tides. At Shikaumi Shrine where the god of the sea is enshrined, there is a unique festival called ‘Yamahome-sai’, in which the people of the sea praise the mountains. Designated as an Intangible Folk Cultural Asset by Fukuoka Prefecture, the festival is held on the 15th of April and the 15th of November annually.

When you visit the shrine, you should purify your body with the purifying sand called ‘oshioi.’ Oshioi are placed in front of the stone steps leading up to the shrine and in the hall of worship. First, before climbing the stone steps, lightly shake it to the left, right and left of your body. Then, after purifying your left hand, right hand and mouth at the shrine’s Chozuya, or water ablution pavilion, you can go to the shrine. As before, shake the Oshioi lightly to the left, right and left of your body, and pray; two bows, two claps and one bow. Near the Juyojo, or amulet offering booth, you will find a paper bag to fill with Oshioi to take it home. If you wish to use them, make a monetary offering to convey your appreciation.

On the right side of the shrine is a place of worship, where two turtle stones, one male and one female, are enshrined. These are sacred stones dedicated to the legend of Empress Jingu. It is said that when Empress Jingu prayed through Azumi no Isoramaru, the god of the sea, for her safe return to Japan from the expedition against the Three Kingdoms of Korea, the gods appeared from the sea on golden turtles, male and female, to protect and guide the route. The turtles later turned into stones, were washed up on the shore of the Shikanoshima Island and were dedicated to the gods.

The shrine has five auxiliary shrines, including Okitsumiya on a small island near Katsuma Beach, and Nakatsumiya located near Katsuma Primary School. Imamiya Shrine is located within the precinct and enshrines Utsushihikakanasaku-no-mikoto, Azumi Isoramaru and the Azumi descenda

There are many other places of interest within the precinct of the shrine; the Deer Antler Repository, where over 10,000 deer antlers have been dedicated; the main shrine built by Nagamasa Kuroda in 1600; and the Isozaki Shrine, an auxiliary shrine which is said to have the power to heal illnesses. The chirping of the birds and the faint sound of the waves will make you relaxed as you stroll along, and you will feel then refreshed. Once you’ve recharged your batteries, head to the Juyojo to receive your lucky charm. You will find a variety of amulets, such as “Kaiun Ryuto-mikuji” (lucky dragon head fortune) and “Ryujin Kachimamori” (dragon god victory amulet), which will surely be appreciated as souvenirs.

▪Shikaumi Shrine
Address: 877 Shikanoshima, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka City
TEL: 092-603-6501
Open: May to October, 5:30-17:30, November to April 6:30-17:30
Car Park: Available
Related web site: Shikaumi Shrine official web site