【Munakata City, Fukuoka】Munakata Shrine Nakatsumiya (Nakatsumiya Shrine)

Munakata Shrine Nakatsumiya (Nakatsumiya Shrine) is located on Oshima Island in Munakata City, Fukuoka Prefecture, and is one of the 3 shrines of Munakata Taisha. Nakatsumiya Shrine enshrines Tagitsuhime no Kami, one of the Munakata Three Goddesses. The main hall was built in 1566 during the Eiroku period and is designated as a cultural property of Fukuoka Prefecture.

About

Nakatsumiya Shrine originated from the Ontake Mountain ritual site at the summit of Mount Ontake, with the main hall constructed on a hill overlooking the sea at the foot of the mountain. This shrine has one of the oldest histories among the Munakata Taisha shrines and is a central place of worship for the Munakata Three Goddesses. The main hall is designated as a cultural property of Fukuoka Prefecture, and the worship hall, built in 1928 during the Showa period, is also a notable feature. Nakatsugu Shrine holds various ceremonies throughout the year, including the monthly festival, spring and autumn grand festivals. The Tanabata Festival, which has been celebrated since the Kamakura period, is especially famous, and the river in the shrine grounds is referred to as the “Milky Way.”

Highlights

At Nakatsumiya Shrine, you can carefully observe its historical background and architecture, learning about the worship of the Munakata Three Goddesses. It is also recommended to participate in one of the shrine’s festivals to experience local culture and traditions. The Tanabata Festival should not be missed. You can also enjoy the beautiful nature of Oshima Island while exploring the area around the shrine. Additionally, make sure to visit the observatory on the opposite side of the island for a view of Okinoshima Island and take part in a pilgrimage of power spots at Munakata Taisha.