Hoto Jinja

This shrine stands on Takashima Island in Karatsu Bay. It was built to enshrine Nozaki Okinokami Tsunayoshi who defeated pirates who were raiding Takashima 450 years ago.

In Heisei Period, the fortunate-sounding name brought more visitors and some of them won big lotteries. Since then, it has been known nationally as the shrine with a blessing on lottery, and 200,000 people visit this small island each year.

After worship, visit the grave of Nozaki Okinokami Tsunayoshi below the main hall and receive a good luck. Check out the unique amulets for hitting a jackpot at the shrine office.

On the same grounds, there is Shioya Shrine that holds Takashima’s guardian gods. Oyamatsumi no kami is the major god who protects mountains, fields, ocean, breweries, and industries.

To get to Takashima, ride for 10 minutes on a scheduled boat or water taxi from Hotosanbashi Pier near Karatsu Castle. If you are driving, it is best to park your car at the municipal parking lot in front of Karatsu Castle.