About Kora Taisha Shrine
Kora Taisha Shrine is the Ichinomiya (first-ranked shrine) of Chikugo Province, located near the summit of Mt. Kora (elevation 312m) in Kurume City, Fukuoka Prefecture. It is said to have been founded in the first year of Emperor Richu’s reign (400 AD), boasting a history of over 1600 years. The main deity is Kora Tamatare no Mikoto, with Hachiman Okami and Sumiyoshi Okami also enshrined.
Architectural Highlights
The thatched roof of the main hall is one of the largest of its kind in Kyushu for a shrine building. It was rebuilt in the early Edo period (1660) by Arima Yoritoshi, the lord of the Kurume domain, and is designated a National Important Cultural Property.
The magnificent carved wooden ceiling is the greatest highlight inside the worship hall. Adorned with colorful carvings of flowers, birds, and landscapes, it showcases the pinnacle of Edo-period craftsmanship. The dragon carving in the center is particularly breathtaking.
Points to Note When Visiting
Seasonal Scenery
Spring (late April to early May): Approximately 4,000 azaleas bloom along the approach to the temple grounds. Known as a famous spot for Kurume azaleas, the colorful red, pink, white, and purple blossoms welcome visitors.
Autumn (mid to late November): The temple is also popular for its autumn foliage, with the maple and ginkgo trees in the grounds changing color, creating a beautiful landscape in harmony with the thatched roof.
Highlights of the Shrine Grounds
- Great Torii Gate: A large vermilion torii gate standing at the entrance to the main approach leading from the foot of the mountain.
- Kogoishi (Sacred Stone Site): Remains of an ancient mountain castle, designated as a national historic site.
- Okumiya Remote Worship Place: A place to worship the inner shrine at the mountaintop.
- Sacred Tree: A giant camphor tree over several hundred years old.
Benefits
Takara Taisha Shrine is widely revered for its benefits of protection from evil and longevity. The following blessings are particularly well-known:
- Protection from Evil and Good Fortune: Revered as one of Kyushu’s foremost gods of protection against evil.
- Longevity and Longevity: Prayers for longevity through the divine virtues of Takara Tamatare-no-Mikoto.
- Family Safety: Peace and prosperity for the family.
- Traffic Safety: Worshipped since ancient times as a god protecting safe travels.
- Prayers for Safe Childbirth: Blessings for conception and safe childbirth.
The Oniyo Festival, held annually on January 8th, is one of Japan’s three major fire festivals, famous for its magnificent ritual of carrying giant torches to ward off evil.
Access
By Train and Bus
- From JR Kurume Station, take Nishitetsu Bus “Route 1 or 2” for approximately 20 minutes, get off at “Mii-machi” bus stop, and walk for approximately 20 minutes.
- From Nishitetsu Kurume Station, take Nishitetsu Bus “Route 1” for approximately 15 minutes, get off at “Mii-machi” bus stop, and walk for approximately 20 minutes.
- From the “Mii-machi” bus stop, it’s approximately a 20-minute walk to the main shrine at the mountaintop (approximately 300 stone steps along the approach).
By Car
- Approximately 20 minutes from the Kyushu Expressway “Kurume IC”
- Parking: Free parking available (approximately 100 cars; you can drive up close to the main shrine).
Visiting Hours
- Open for worship (Shrine office is open from 9:00 to 17:00)
- Address: 1 Mii-machi, Kurume City, Fukuoka Prefecture
- Phone: 0942-43-4893
Surrounding Area Information
Mt. Kora offers a spectacular panoramic view of Kurume city, and on clear days, you can even see the Ariake Sea and Mt. Unzen. At the foot of the mountain is the Kora-san Teahouse, perfect for a rest after visiting the shrine.
