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

In this special series we will be introducing the two major kanbeisha shrines, Kashii Shrine and Hakozaki Shrine located in Fukuoka’s eastern Higashi-ku. In this special itinerary we will be focusing on how these shrines may bring you good luck, all while introducing nearby spots that will be worth your while to visit. 

Now, we will introduce a selection of spiritual power spots located in Kashii Shrine that have deep connections to Japanese myth and folklore. Energize both mind and body here!

What kind of shrine is Kashii Shrine? 

Kashii Shrine is dedicated to 14th Japanese Emperor Chuai and Empress Jingu. With this pedigree, the shrine today is also known as the couple’s shrine on account of this connection. 

Once honored as a kanbeisha, the shrine continues to receive Imperial envoys during important rituals, marking it out as a high-ranking shrine.

Japanese myths and stories of the gods live on in the shrine grounds, and the shrine even exhibits a form of shrine construction named for it, called Kashii style. Surrounded by abundant nature, and often the site of stirring ceremonies, the shrine continues to commend respect for its deep historical and religious significance and as a place where one can continue to feel the pulse of the Japan of old.

A stately torii gate stands at the entrance to Kashii Shrine. Your trip to the world of Empress Jingu and Emperor Chuai and the myths associated with them begins here. 

The chokushido is an ancient road that was traditionally used for Imperial envoys heading to the shrine. Extending directly from Kashii Station, the road is lined with cobbled roads and beautiful trees, creating a mysterious and ancient atmosphere.

The symbol of Kashii Shrine, preserving traditions dating back to the era of Empress Jingū. The gate stands like a portal connecting myth and modern times.

Additionally, by gazing back through the tower gate upon passing through, one can see the torii from earlier behind it, framed by the entrance. This actually resembles the Japanese kanji for ‘open’, or ‘開’ (see above), giving it a reputation for being a place where one’s luck similarly begins to open.

A holy tree that has been consecrated with prayers for the peace and safety of Japan. The zigzag or aya pattern on the trunk of the tree is said to be the work of a god. 

The main symbol of Kashii Shrine, the main shrine hall, is built in the Kashiizukuri style, which is the only architectural style of its kind in Japan. Here wedded kami are worshipped in honor of deep connections between people. 

The sacred water said to have granted Takeuchi no Sukune, who served Empress Jingu, a lifespan of 300 years. It was selected as one of Japan’s 100 famous springs. Try the water while praying for longevity and good health. *Please boil before drinking. 

A holy forest that Empress Jingu herself was said to have walked through. Walk amidst the tranquility and bask in the quiet and subtle energy.

Powerful charms associated with myths pertaining to Kashii Shrine are available. The popular charms are as follows: 

・【Couple's Amulet・夫婦御守】An amulet wishing for a deep bond like Emperor Chuai and Empress Jingū. For matchmaking and marital harmony.
・【Wish-Granting Amulet・叶守】An amulet drawing upon Empress Jingu's strong resolve. Your wishes will surely come true.
・【Sacred Pillar Amulet・御柱守】A special amulet crafted from the sacred pillars of Kashii Shrine. Enlist the power of the kami in your daily protection.
・【Children’s Amulet・こどもまもり】An amulet wishing for the healthy growth of children.

In 2025, a special seal was made to commemorate a festival held by imperial order in Kashii Shrine, held only once every 10 years. As a testament to a moment where myth and history intersect, etched into your goshuin stamp book. The touches of gold exude a sense of exclusivity (Limited until the end of December 2025).

When the main object of worship is removed from the main hall, it is temporarily stored here. This is a special place where one can feel the presence of the gods. 

A trek around Kashii Shrine will bring you in contact with the spirit of Japanese myth. The more you explore, the more you feel immersed in those stories of old. Before you know it, your mind and body are both suffused with the spiritual energy of the shrine. 

[Kashii Shrine]
■ Address: 4-16-1 Kashii, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka [MAP]
■ Access: a 4-minute walk from JR Kashii Line [Kashii Shrine Station] OR a 10-minute walk from the Nishitetsu Kaizuka Line [Kashii Shrine Station].
■ Parking: 350 spots
■ Official site:  https://kashiigu.com/
■ Details are here @kashiigu_official

After enjoying a walk through the shrine there are plenty of excellent cafés and lunch spots around as well. Why not enjoy a bite and spot of shopping. 

Near the spring of mortality on the shrine grounds is restaurant Handmade Soba Furoan, which almost always sports a line in front of it. Their main claim to fame are their 100% buckwheat homemade soba noodles. We also recommend trying the crispy mini-tempura rice bowl and 100% buckwheat soba set (1,500 yen). This is the perfect place to go for a bite after praying. 

[Handmade Soba Furoan]
■ 4-13-14 Kashii, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka City [MAP]
■ Hours: 11:30 ~ 14:30 (Monday・Wednesday ~ Saturday) *Please check with the restaurant for up-to-date info.
■ Closed on Tuesday, Sunday, and Holidays (may be closures for different reasons at times)
■ TEL: 092-672-2611
■ Parking: 5 spots

Located on the shrine road is coffee specialist and roaster Nan-no-Ki. They roast all of their beans in-house, leading to a high quality and aromatic cup of coffee. They also make their own bread and sweets without any additives, with the torii gate shaped treat featured on the Sando Plate (includes one cake, an ice cream, and fruit) coming recommended (1,000 yen). A great place to relax after offering prayers at the shrine! 

[In-house Bean Roaster Specialist Kashii Sando Nan-no-Ki]
■ Address: 1-3-31 Kashii, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka City [MAP]
■ Hours: 10:00 ~ 18:00 *Please check with the store for up-to-date info.
■ Closed on Thursdays (If Thursday coincides with a holiday they remain open, but are closed the following Friday.)
■ TEL: 092-201-2201
■ Parking: 15 spots (use coin parking)
■ Details at @nannokicoffee

Gupain is a bakery located on the shrine road, and uses additive-free 100% Hokkaido wheat flour in all of their items. The name of the bakery reflects the Japanese words for the specific term for shrine in Japanese, or 宮/gu, and for bread in French, pain. Due to its proximity to the shrine, it is often used by people following trips to the shrine. Of particular note is the homemade custard cream bread (230 yen). The tuna and tomato panini also comes highly recommended (440 yen)!

[Gupain]
■ Address: 1-22-7, Kashii, Higashi-ward, Fukuoka City [MAP]
■ Hours: 10:00 ~ 18:00 **Please check with the store for up-to-date info.
■ Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays
■ TEL: 092-410-9595
■ Details at  @goopanfukuoka

Baum, nestled along the road to Kashii Shrine, is a select shop for wooden goods and toys opened 15 years ago by owner Mr. Sagara, driven by a desire to deliver the warmth of items made with food into daily life. A rare specialty store for wooden products in Fukuoka, its popular items include wooden tableware and wooden toys for children. 

We recommend the wooden seal book as a way of commemorating your visit to Kashii Shrine. Lovingly made items made with natural ingredients are there for your perusal, perfect for adding a touch of the warmth to your life.

[Baum]
■ Address: 4-14-3, Kashii, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka[MAP]
■ Hours: 10:00~17:00 *Please check with the store for up-to-date info.
■ Closed on Sundays and Mondays
■ TEL: 092-672-0234
■ Details at @baum_kashii

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