A branch shrine of the famous Munakata Taisha in Fukuoka, dedicated to the three sea goddesses who protect travelers and maritime activities. The Munakata deities are revered throughout Japan for their role in safe passage and divine protection.
- Denomination
- Munakata
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Munakata Sanjojin (Three Goddesses of Munakata)
- Kami enshrined
- Tagirihime-no-mikoto, Ichikishimahime-no-mikoto, Takitsuhime-no-mikoto
- Coordinates
- 35.1928933, 136.8924287
Visitor tip
Look for the distinctive three-goddess motif in the shrine's decorative elements and offerings.
Cultural notes
The three Munakata goddesses are daughters of Amaterasu in Shinto mythology and are considered powerful protectors of seafarers, roads, and all forms of travel and transportation.
Historical note
Munakata shrines were established across Japan as branch shrines of Munakata Taisha, one of Japan's most ancient Shinto sites. The cult of the Munakata goddesses spread from Kyushu during the ancient period as maritime trade and travel expanded throughout the archipelago.