In Fukuoka City there are two major kanbeisha and two minor kanbeisha shrines, long respected and of high historical value. 

In this article we will be introducing information pertaining to the two minor kanbeisha in two parts: one for Shikaumi Shrine, the other for Sumiyoshi Shrine. 

Either would be perfect places to recharge your batteries amidst your travels. We hope that you will consider visiting both them and the nearby walking routes at your leisure.

<<Shikaumi Shrine Edition is here>>[Shikaumi Shrine × Sumiyoshi Shrine] Shrine Itineraries to Help Refresh Your Spirit (Shikaumi Shrine Edition)

Located in the heart of Hakata, the tranquil interior of Sumiyoshi Shrine fits the definition of urban oasis to a tee. Walk through the shrine grounds steeped in myth, visiting healing spots that improve your fortunes and purify your spirit.

What kind of shrine is Sumiyoshi Shrine?

Located in Fukuoka’s Hakata Ward, Sumiyoshi Shrine enshrines the three Sumiyoshi gods Uwazutsunoo, Nakazutsunoo, and Sokozutsunoo, who were born from the god Izanagi’s ritual ablutions upon his return from the underworld. These gods have been associated with protection at sea and seafaring since ancient times. 

Hakata’s Sumiyoshi Shrine is considered the oldest in all of Japan, and is often referred to as the main Sumiyoshi Shrine to denote its high standing. Under the former shrine system, it was listed among the minor kanbei shrines and would receive special offerings from the national government. 

In addition to safety at sea, Sumiyoshi Shrine is often prayed at for warding off misfortune, improving luck, and success in the performing arts and sumo wrestling. The quiet, verdant interior of the shrine creates a striking contrast with the hustle and bustle of the city, helping to relax and calm the hearts of those who visit. 
 
The main hall of the shrine is a designated national important cultural property. The term urban oasis is the perfect way to describe the healing atmosphere of this shrine. 

Recognized as the main Sumiyoshi Shrine nationwide, the main shrine hall is listed as a nationally important cultural property. The Sumiyoshi style of shrine building is among the oldest in the country, lending the construction here a fittingly sacred energy. We recommend offering a heartfelt prayer if you are interested.

Located next to the main shrine hall is this statue depicting an ancient sumo wrestler. The tough build of the statue seems to fill those who look at it with a similar strength, whether they’re heading off to a contest or an important business meeting. Inscribed in the palm of the statue’s hand is the character 力, or power. 

Enumerated among Japan’s seven lucky gods, Ebisu is a god of commerce, fishing, and good fortune. Worries are dispelled by looking at his jovial expression, which brings good luck to those who gaze upon it. If you touch his seabream (see above image) it is said your financial prospects will improve. Touching other parts of his body is said to bring other corresponding benefits: his face brings safety to your family, his belly helps to heal illness, and his arms help make you more skilled in both arts and crafts. 

The Inari Shrine area with its vermillion torii gates is said to bring safety to the home and success in business. Pass beneath the gates with a prayer in your heart and let the shrine help strengthen your resolve. 

This little shrine is unique in that you are meant to kneel down and peer in through the small torii gate while offering your prayer. Face your inner self as you pray, and take a step towards the improvement of your fortune and circumstances.

A lucky koban coin from Shiga Shrine can be found in the shrine precincts. By touching it luck and economic good fortune will come fluttering into your life together with the blessing of the sea gods. 

Tucked away in the middle of the shrine is a traditional Noh theater, where votive Noh performances and music events are held. We recommend a visit to those seeking to improve their artistic sensibilities and powers of expression. In 2023 major improvements were made to the structure, giving it a traditional-yet-modern appeal. 

For those seeking a souvenir, the shrine also sells a lineup of cute charms that are meant to strengthen your luck. We will introduce some of the most popular of these.

Lucky zodiac charms: Here you can choose from little charms representing each animal of the zodiac. Receive the protection of the animal of your choosing- it doesn’t have to be your own zodiac animal!
Wishing star charm: Fill this charm with your wishes, and befriend a lucky star in the night sky. 
Lucky koban coin: This coin-shaped charm is meant to call economic prosperity, health, and wealth. Many stow it in their wallets upon purchase!

Here one can purchase one of several different designs. On one it is written #1 Shrine in Chikuzen Country, a classy callback to the former name of the region Fukuoka is located in. As Sumiyoshi Shrine is considered among the most important Sumiyoshi Shrine’s, this seal stamp refers to its high standing. The second says Railroad Shrine, a reference to the shrine located atop Hakata Station. The last one says Shitateru-hime, the name of a goddess. 

Hyotan Pond is located across from the western gate of Sumiyoshi Shrine, and is filled with the purifying energy of a water god. From ancient times this pond was considered to be filled with spiritual power, and it is said that its waters have the ability to cleanse both mind and body of impurities. When you want to improve your luck, this is a place to visit. 

Amatsu Shrine, located just across the bridge, is a spot worth visiting for its blessings of matchmaking and household safety.

Walking amidst history, nature, and the myths of the past, a quiet and sacred presence permeates Sumiyoshi Shrine and can be felt by visitors. Forget the hustle and bustle of the city outside in this little oasis, and give your energy a boost. 

Sumiyoshi Shrine
■    3-1-51 Sumiyoshi, Hakata-ku, Fukuoka City [MAP]
■    Access: 8-minute walk from JR Hakata Station (or Hakata Subway Station)
That, or 2-minute walk from the Sumiyoshi bus stop
■    Parking: roughly 30 spots available
■    Official homepage: https://www.nihondaiichisumiyoshigu.jp/
■    Details: @sumiyoshijinja_official

After enjoying a walk around Sumiyoshi Shrine, here are some retro café and lunch spots and art stores you can visit afterwards.

After refreshing the spirit at Sumiyoshi Shrine, now would be the perfect time to look for an understated, special activity. 

Scapes is a luxurious café and bar with a flower and bonsai tree theme. In one corner of the store, they even sell bonsai trees (starting from 5,500 per tree), as well as plenty of pots, miscellaneous items, and bonsai themed original goods besides. 

Many products allow visitors to enjoy the beauty of the aging of these plants and bonsai, and for real plant-lovers they even periodically offer workshops (6,600 yen and up). You can experience the joy of growing things with your own hands.

In the café they sell a variety of different beverages including their special cold brew and Yame matcha latté (800 yen), a Yame matcha affogato (900 yen), and many seasonal sweets. Spending time gazing at different bonsai trees while sipping on your drink is a rare and luxurious experience, even in Fukuoka!

In 2025 the store was even awarded the coveted JAXURY Award by Japanese publishing company Kodansha. They were awarded it as being a business that embodies the Japanese real deal, giving them a stamp of legitimacy. A quiet social gathering place for adults to enjoy the fusion of art and nature while appreciating bonsai. 

Scapes
■ Address: 2-17-3 Sumiyoshi, Hakata-ku, Fukuoka City[MAP]
■ Hours: 11:00 ~ 18:00 (Last order at café 17:30)
※For up-to-date hours, please confirm with the store directly
■ Days off: Wednesdays + irregular holidays
■ Details:  @scapes_fukuoka

Furuhon Sumiyoshi is the perfect store to visit in the area for those looking for a unique old book store. There are almost 15,000 different books of a wide variety of genres lined up, with Showa-era trinkets and art pieces spread out throughout the store. 

Plenty of the owner’s private belongings decorate the interior, and every time you visit it seems like you make a new discovery. The store is only open on Saturdays and Sundays, giving it a sense of exclusivity, a little gem that you can only find on weekends. 

Furuhon Sumiyoshi 
■  Address: 4-14-3 Sumiyoshi, Hakata-ku, Fukuoka City   [MAP]
■  Hours: 11:00 ~ 18:30
※Only open on weekends
※For up-to-date hours, please confirm with the store directly
■  Details: @furuhon_sumiyoshi

Chinese Dining Shan is a Chinese restaurant located in the back alleys of the Sumiyoshi area. The restaurant is loved by locals for serving home-cooked meals with warm, smiling customer service. Set meals, noodle dishes, rice dishes, and a robust à la carte menu all offer excellent cost performance with big servings.

Especially popular are the teppan-grilled shrimp (950 yen), crab omelette over rice (tenshinhan, 850 yen), and the vegetable-packed champon noodles (850 yen). Counter seating, tables, and small raised seats are all available in this restaurant. Easy to visit and perfect for a substantial bite of food! 

Chinese Dining Shan
■  Address: 4-15-5 Sumiyoshi, Hakata-ku, Fukuoka City [MAP]
■  Hours: 11:00 ~ 15:00
※For up-to-date hours, please confirm with the store directly
■  Days off: Wednesdays・Sundays・holidays 
■  TEL: 092-474-2333

Daruma-do was established in 1949 and is a beloved staple of the neighborhood that has been patronized by locals for generations. The shop is lined with anpan, cream bread, curry bread, melon bread, donuts, and more, all delivered fresh from the bakery. Most items are reasonably priced between 100 and 150 yen. Supported by a wide range of fans, from local children to commuters, it's the perfect spot for satisfying a small craving while out exploring.

Daruma-do 
■ Address: 4-15-5 Sumiyoshi, Hakata-ku, Fukuoka City[MAP]
■ Hours: 7:30 ~ 19:00 
※For up-to-date hours, please confirm with the store directly
■ Days off: Sundays
■ TEL: 092-431-2849

Opened in 1974, Café Poésie is yet another neighborhood classic. The ice drip coffee (in Japan referred to as Dutch coffee) is brewed over the course of 8 hours to make a very flavorful cup of joe (500 yen), the perfect companion to a light breakfast. The fireplace, wooden furniture, and antique lighting create a cozy atmosphere, and smoking is permitted throughout the establishment. The perfect place for somebody seeking an adult, down-to-earth place to spend the time. 

Café Poésie
■  Address: 3-12-14 Hakataekimae, Hakata-ku, Fukuoka City [MAP]
■  Hours: 8:00 ~ 18:00
※Closest at 14:00 on Saturday
※For up-to-date hours, please confirm with the store directly
■  Days off: Sunday・holidays
■  TEL: 092-411-9558

※Store hours, holidays, menu prices, and other details are subject to change. Please confirm directly with the store before visiting.

<<Shikaumi Shrine Edition is here>>[Shikaumi Shrine × Sumiyoshi Shrine] Shrine Itineraries to Help Refresh Your Spirit (Shikaumi Shrine Edition)