Located in the heart of Fukuoka, 老松神社 (Ryōzu Shrine) is a historic Shinto shrine dedicated to the kami Ryūzu-Ō-no-Mikoto, believed to be an ancestral deity of the Matsura clan. The shrine's architecture reflects its origins as a Heian-period temple (8th century), with later additions made during the Edo period (17th century). Visitors can explore the serene gardens and traditional torii gate, adorned with vibrant autumn leaves in fall.
- Religion
- shinto
- Kami enshrined
- Ryūzu-Ō-no-Mikoto
- Coordinates
- 33.5951917, 130.4528644
Visitor tip
To fully appreciate the shrine's autumn foliage, plan your visit during the peak season (mid-November to mid-December) and arrive early to secure a spot in front of the torii gate before the crowds arrive.
Cultural notes
Ryūzu Shrine is associated with the legend of Ryūzu-Ō-no-Mikoto, who was said to have been a great fisherman. According to myth, the shrine's torii gate was built from a giant cedar tree that grew at the site where Ryūzu-Ō-no-Mikoto caught a sacred fish.
Historical note
The shrine was originally built in 794 CE as a Shinto shrine for the Matsura clan, but its history dates back to the 8th century when it was rebuilt after being destroyed by fires during the Nara period.