About Kashii-gu Shrine
Kashii-gu Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Kashii, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka City. It enshrines Emperor Chuai and Empress Jingu as its main deities. It is one of only 16 imperial shrines in Japan, and a highly prestigious shrine where an imperial envoy from the Emperor visits once every 10 years.
History and Origin
It is said to have been founded by Empress Jingu to enshrine the spirit of Emperor Chuai, and boasts a history of approximately 1800 years. It is an ancient shrine mentioned in the *Nihon Shoki* (Chronicles of Japan) and has long been revered by the imperial court. The current main hall was rebuilt in 1801 (Kyowa 1) and is designated as a National Important Cultural Property.
Points to Note When Visiting
Kashii-zukuri Main Hall
The main hall is built in a unique architectural style called “Kashii-zukuri.” While based on the Shinmei-zukuri architectural style, it features a unique structure with two gable roofs arranged in a row, one at the front and one at the back. This style is known as a one-of-a-kind architectural form found only in the main hall of Kashii Shrine.
Ayasugi (Dual-Shaped Cedar)
Within the shrine grounds stands the sacred tree “Ayasugi,” said to be 1800 years old. Legend says that Empress Jingu planted a cedar branch in the tomb of Emperor Chuai, and it took root. It is called “Ayasugi” because of its unusual characteristic of its leaves growing in a crisscross pattern.
Furousui (Water of Immortality)
At the back of the shrine grounds is a spring called “Furousui” (Water of Immortality). It is said that Emperor Chuai drew this water to brew sake, and that Takenouchi no Sukune drank it and lived to be 300 years old, hence the name “Furousui.” The spring continues to flow today, and visitors can freely draw water from it.
Well-maintained Garden
The temple grounds feature a Japanese garden planted with seasonal flowers and trees, particularly renowned for its beautiful cherry blossoms in spring, azaleas in early summer, and autumn foliage. Visitors can enjoy a tranquil stroll through the garden.
Benefits
Safe Childbirth and Child-rearing
Based on the legend that Empress Jingu successfully conquered the Three Kingdoms of Korea while pregnant with Emperor Ojin and gave birth safely, the temple is revered as a deity of safe childbirth and child-rearing.
Good Fortune and Victory
Due to Empress Jingu’s martial prowess, the temple is believed to bring good fortune and victory in competitions and life-changing events.
Maritime Safety and Traffic Safety
Known as a guardian deity of navigation, the temple attracts many visitors praying for maritime safety and traffic safety.
Access
Access by Train
- Approximately 15 minutes on foot from JR Kagoshima Main Line “Kashii Station”
- Approximately 3 minutes on foot from Nishitetsu Kaizuka Line “Kashii-gu-mae Station” (nearest station)
Access by Car
- Approximately 10 minutes from Fukuoka Urban Expressway “Kashii-hama Ramp”
- Parking: Free parking available (approximately 100 cars)
Address
4-16-1 Kashii, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka City, Fukuoka Prefecture
Visiting Information
- Visiting Hours: Grounds are freely accessible (Shrine office is open from 9:00 to 17:00)
- Admission Fee: Free
- Goshuin (Shrine Seal): Available (reception at the shrine office)
- Main Festivals: Annual Festival (October 29th), Spring Grand Festival (April 29th)
