Mustuga神社, located in Fukuoka Prefecture, is one of the oldest Shinto shrines in Japan, dating back to the Heian period (794-1185). The shrine's primary enshrined deity is Hachiman, the god of war and patron saint of sailors. Mustuga神社 is famous for its beautiful vermilion torii gate, which is said to have been built during the Edo period (1603-1867). The shrine's architecture reflects its Kamakura-style roots, with a distinctive roofed stage in front of the main hall.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Hachiman
- Kami enshrined
- Hachiman
- Coordinates
- 33.4221407, 130.6617564
Visitor tip
To make an offering to Hachiman, visitors should tie a red string with a prayer written on it around the torii gate's pillars, as this is a traditional Shinto practice.
Cultural notes
Mustuga神社 is also famous for its association with the 'Yurei of Fukuoka', a legend about a vengeful spirit said to haunt the shrine. During the Obon festival, visitors may notice the presence of lanterns along the path leading up to the shrine, believed to guide the spirits back to their homes.
Historical note
The shrine was rebuilt after being destroyed by a typhoon in 1952.