Overview
Founded by tradition in 757, this is Hakata's guardian shrine — locals call it 'O-Kushida-san'. It anchors the UNESCO-listed Hakata Gion Yamakasa festival (July 1-15), whose climax 'Oiyama' race starts here at 4:59am on the 15th as teams sprint 5km carrying one-ton floats. A decorated festival float over 10m tall stands in the grounds all year, so you can grasp the spectacle in any season. It sits conveniently between Canal City and Hakata Riverain.
Opening Hours
4:00-22:00 (grounds freely accessible)
🚇 Getting there
5 minutes from Gion or Nakasu-Kawabata subway stations; 3 from Canal City.
⏱️ How long to visit
About 30-45 minutes.
🌅 Best time to visit
July 1-15 during Yamakasa is the time to be here — the pre-dawn Oiyama race on the 15th is once-in-a-lifetime. Otherwise, early mornings are serene.
Travel Tips
The festival float in the grounds is free to view. The Hakata Machiya Folk Museum nearby covers the festival's history.
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🇰🇷 Tips for Korean Travelers
Practical info for Korean travelers heading to Fukuoka, Japan from Seoul (ICN).
Korean Passport · Visa
Check visa rules for Japan on the Korean MOFA travel advisory site before flying — visa-free, visa-on-arrival or e-visa rules change often. Keep at least 6 months of passport validity.
Flight from Incheon (ICN)
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KRW ↔ Local Currency
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Korean Community · Korean Food
Many cities have an active Korean community in Fukuoka with Korean restaurants, mini-marts, and Korean-speaking guides. Search Naver Cafe or KakaoTalk open chats for "Fukuoka 한인" before you go.
Attractions near Kushida Shrine
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Things to Do in Fukuoka
Nakasu Yatai Hopping
Hop two or three riverside stalls for ramen, yakitori and oden — Fukuoka's definitive night out. Cash essential.
Dazaifu Day Trip
A half-day by train from Tenjin: Dazaifu Tenmangu, the Kyushu National Museum and the mochi-lined approach.
Nakasu River Cruise
Glide the Naka River at night as yatai lanterns and neon shimmer across the water.