East Area | History & Culture Hakozaki Shrine
This is one of the three major shrines dedicated to Hachiman god, along with Iwashimizu Hachiman Shrine and Usa Hachiman Shrine. This shrine is also dedicated to three ancient emperors and empresses; Emperor Oujin, Empress Jingu and Tamayorihime-no-mikoto. It was founded in 923, with the transfer of god from Daibu Hachiman Shrine in Honami-gun, Fukuoka. After the role of Korokan (ancient guesthouse for diplomats) declined in the 12th century, this shrine became a busy juncture of overseas trading and has gone through a series of historical events including the Mongolian invasions. Numerous building structures, including the main hall, the worship hall, Sakuramon gate, Ichino-torii (gate) and wooden lantern here are designated as important cultural assets. Tamaseseri Festival and Hojoya Festival are held at this shrine every year and attract a lot of people.