Munakata Taisha

Munakata Taisha (宗像大社) is a Shinto shrine complex located in Munakata City, Fukuoka Prefecture, Japan. It is considered one of the most important shrines in Japan and is dedicated to three goddesses, collectively known as the Munakata Sanjojin (田心姫神, 湍津姫神, 市杵島姫神), who are believed to protect sailors and fishermen.

The shrine consists of three main shrines: Okitsugu Shrine on Okinoshima Island, Nakatsu-gu Shrine on Oshima Island, and Hetsu-gu Shrine on the mainland. Each shrine is dedicated to one of the three goddesses. The shrines are connected by pathways, and the main hall of Hetsu-gu Shrine, which houses the sacred mirror believed to be the embodiment of the goddesses’ divine power, is designated as a National Treasure.

The shrine’s architecture is a combination of Japanese and Chinese styles, with elaborate roof ornaments and colorful decorations. The surrounding grounds are also worth exploring, with several smaller shrines and beautiful gardens.

Munakata Taisha is an important pilgrimage site for worshippers of the Munakata Sanjojin, and several festivals are held throughout the year to celebrate the goddesses. One of the most famous festivals is the Autumn Grand Festival, held in October, which features a procession of portable shrines and traditional dance performances.

Getting there

By Train and Bus

Take a train on the JR Kagoshima Main Line to Togo Station

• From Hakata Station: 30-40 minutes, 570 yen
• From Kokura Station: 40-50 minutes, 760 yen

From Togo Station:

• Take a Nishitetsu Bus bound for Konominato Wharf
• Get off at “Munakata Taisha-mae” bus stop (about 12 minutes)
• Short walk to the shrine

By Car

• About 35 minutes from Wakamiya IC or Koga IC on the Kyushu Expressway
• Free parking available for approximately 1,000 vehicles

From Fukuoka Airport

• Take a train to Hakata Station, then follow the train and bus route above

Munakata Taisha consists of three shrines:

• Hetsu Shrine (main shrine) on the mainland
• Nakatsu Shrine on Oshima Island
• Okitsu Shrine on Okinoshima Island (closed to public)

To visit Nakatsu Shrine, take a ferry from Konominato Port to Oshima Island.

Details

Hours	9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Admission	Free
Phone	+81 940-62-1311
Address	2331 Tashima, Munakata, Fukuoka 811-3505
Official Website	https://munakata-taisha.or.jp/