Located in the Fukuoka Prefecture, Mikado-jinja Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the worship of Emperor Sujin and Empress Sugetusa, who are believed to have established the city of Dazaifu. The shrine's main hall, the Honden, is adorned with a vermilion torii gate, symbolizing the connection between heaven and earth. Visitors can explore the surrounding gardens and historic buildings, including the Nakatani-kaisha residence, which dates back to the 17th century.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Sujin
- Kami enshrined
- Sujin, Sugetusa
- Coordinates
- 33.6394992, 130.4995547
Visitor tip
To fully appreciate the shrine's gardens, plan your visit for early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and take advantage of the soft natural light.
Cultural notes
Mikado-jinja Shrine is famous for its annual Star Festival (Tanabata), which celebrates the meeting of two star-crossed lovers, Orpheus and Eurydice. During the festival, visitors can tie colored paper lanterns to a wooden beam, making wishes for their own love stories.
Historical note
Founded in 708 CE during the Asuka period, by Emperor Temmu, on an existing shrine site, dedicated to Sujin and Sugetusa.