©Arukikata. Co. , Ltd.  |  ©Bringer Japan Z Inc.

National Grand Shrine Suitengu

Verified [Verified] denotes information that has been published with confirmation of its owing parties.

National Grand Shrine Suitengu

A historic shrine perched near the majestic Chikugo River.

3.95 1

Last update :
Supervised by :  National Grand Shrine Suitengu

Located near the Chikugo River in Fukuoka Prefecture, this is the main shrine of Suitengu, with branches across Japan and even in Hawaii. Established in 1190 to honor the souls of the Taira clan who perished in the Battle of Dan-no-ura, the shrine was relocated to its current site in 1650. Suitengu is revered as a deity of water, offering blessings for safe childbirth, fertility, and protection from misfortune.

A walk through the shrine grounds reveals a smattering of mysterious Hizen Komainu statues, believed to relieve pain when you rub the part of the statue corresponding to your ailment. Other highlights include Maki Shrine, dedicated to the 22nd chief priest Maki Izumi-no-Kami Yasutomi, who played a key role in the Meiji Restoration, and a monument with a haiku by renowned poet Takahama Kyoshi. Don’t miss the Maki Izumi Memorial Hall, which displays his artifacts (advance reservation required).

The shrine boasts a reputation as a camellia hotspot and a matching camellia crest, symbolizing the love story of Emperor Antoku and Tamae-hime, the enshrined deities. From winter to spring the grounds by the main hall bloom with the sheer delight of 20 different camellia strains.

Full programming across the year including the Spring Grand Festival from May 3 to 7, praying for national prosperity. In August, the Chikugo River Fireworks Festival, which dates back 350 years, offers another reason to visit.

Highlights

  • A historic shrine founded in 1190.
  • Revered as the deity of water, offering blessings for safe childbirth, fertility, and protection from misfortune.
  • Features the Hizen Komainu statues, believed to alleviate physical pain.
  • Also known as a famous spot for camellias.
  • Hosts many annual events, including the bustling Chikugo River Fireworks Festival in summer.

Photos

  • Founded in 1190, the main shrine of Suitengu, with branches across Japan and in Hawaii.

    Founded in 1190, the main shrine of Suitengu, with branches across Japan and in Hawaii.

  • The Bizen Komainu, also called the "Patting Komainu," is said to alleviate pain when you rub the corresponding part of the statue.

    The Bizen Komainu, also called the "Patting Komainu," is said to alleviate pain when you rub the corresponding part of the statue.

  • A statue of the 22nd chief priest, Maki Izumi-no-Kami, who played a significant role in the Meiji Restoration. The current statue, erected in 1968, is the second version.

    A statue of the 22nd chief priest, Maki Izumi-no-Kami, who played a significant role in the Meiji Restoration. The current statue, erected in 1968, is the second version.

  • Known as a camellia hotspot, with nearly 20 varieties blooming from February to early April.

    Known as a camellia hotspot, with nearly 20 varieties blooming from February to early April.

  • The Spring Grand Festival (Reitaisai), held from May 3 to 7, prays for national prosperity.

    The Spring Grand Festival (Reitaisai), held from May 3 to 7, prays for national prosperity.

  • The Chikugo River Fireworks Festival, one of the largest in western Japan, held annually in August.

    The Chikugo River Fireworks Festival, one of the largest in western Japan, held annually in August.

Official FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions have been vetted and answered directly by each listing.

Q

Do you have pamphlets in other languages? (If so, please also inform us of the supported languages)
A

Sorry, we don’t.

Q

Do you have shrine’s red ink stamps?
A

Yes, available at a ceremonial fee of 500 yen.

Q

Is parking available?
A

Yes. (Accommodates 100 vehicles)

Q

Are coin lockers available?
A

Not available.

Reviews

1

Some reviews are AI-translated.

  • Marcel Martin

    The history here dates back to the Edo period, and the whole place is filled with a strong sense of tradition. The shrine's design is simple yet elegant, giving you a sacred feeling of being connected to both nature and the divine.

Details

Name in Japanese
全国総本宮 水天宮
Postal Code
830-0025
Address
265-1 Senoshitamachi, Kurume City, Fukuoka
Telephone
0942-32-3207
Closed
Open every day
Business Hours
9:00am - 4:30pm
Admission
Free
Access
About 10 minutes walk from JR Kagoshima Main Line’s Kurume Station.
Official Website
Official Website (Japanese)
Popular Articles

This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website. Learn more