Munakata Taisha Shrine

As one of the oldest shrines in Japan, it has also appeared in Japanese myths. With over 6200 affiliated shrines, this shrine worships the Amaterasu Okami (ancestral god of the Japanese emperor), the Three Munakata Goddesses, and the Shishi-gami. The deity has been responsible for the prosperity of the imperial family and the protection of the nation. Today, the deity has long been worshipped as the supreme deity of all "pathways," including safety of sea navigation and roads, as well as life, art, and health.

The Munakata Taisha Shrine is composed of 3 shrines. The “Okitsumiya” in Okinoshima Island, “Nakatsumiya” in Oshima Island, and the “Hetsumiya” in Munakata. The latter being the most popular. To access Oshima Island, visitors can take a 15-25 minute boat ride departing from Konomitato Port. On Oshima Island, there is a praying spot that overlooks Okinoshima Island. Visitors are forbidden from traveling to Okinoshima Island, only members of the shrine can access.

Inside the spacious areas of Hetsumiya, visitors can see the Main Pavilion, designated as a national treasure. The “Takanomiya Festive Grounds” is dubbed the country’s best Power Spot. The “Second Third Pavilion” features treasures brought from Ise Jingu shrine. The “God Treasure Pavilion”, features artifacts, equipment, and decoration excavated from Okinoshima Island.