Kushida Shrine (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Kushida Shrine?
What makes it 77% Kids-Friendly: Colorful festival floats, a lift-the-stone challenge, flat paths, toilets, and ema drawing keep children engaged, but the shrine lacks playgrounds or guides, so interest may fade after one hour.
Positives:
- Central location: A short walk from Hakata Station makes arrival easy for families.
- Barrier-free access: Paved paths suit strollers if your 3-year-old needs one.
Challenges:
- Crowds during festival: Early mornings are very busy in mid-July; plan accordingly.
- Limited English signage: Bring a translation app as most signs are in Japanese.
What is Kushida Shrine?
- A Shinto shrine established in 757 CE and revered as Hakata’s principal spiritual site
- The focal point of Fukuoka’s largest annual festival, the Hakata Gion Yamakasa
- A historic architectural complex featuring torii gates, traditional wooden halls and a venerable ginkgo tree
What is so special about Kushida Shrine for with kids?
- Free entry with hands-on activities for kids
- Year-round display of colorful festival floats
- Kids can lift the power stone and draw wishes
- Affordable children’s charms and ema
- Shaded rest spots under the historic ginkgo tree
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours
Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: This gives families enough time to explore floats, lift stones, and make charms without rushing.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Kushida Shrine
Admire festival floats:
See the colorful Hakata Gion Yamakasa floats on display inside the shrine grounds.
Tip: Let kids pose next to a float for fun photos.
Lift the smaller Chikara-ishi:
Challenge each child to lift a power stone to test their strength.
Tip: Show them how to squat and lift safely with both hands.
Draw wishes on ema plaques:
Buy and decorate wooden ema for each child to hang at the shrine.
Tip: Bring crayons or markers and encourage creative drawings.
Buy children’s protection charms:
Pick up a kodomo-mamori for each child at the office.
Tip: Ask for English explanations of each charm’s meaning.
Relax under the ginkgo tree:
Take a break and snap a family photo under the ancient tree.
Tip: Use the shaded bench area for resting between activities.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Kushida Shrine
- Early arrival: Arrive before 9 AM to enjoy quieter grounds and better photos.
- Combine with Hakata walk: Pair the visit with a walk around nearby Nakasu for snacks.
Reviews of Kushida Shrine
Tobias
This place feels like an isle of calm inside a bustling city, it amazes me how quiet it was in here! It feels like being taken back 300 years in time, the buildings were incredible and everyone I saw bowed to the shrines and was very respectful, contributing to the atmosphere. There were many small temples and even a pond with koi fish in it. So far my favourite place in all of Fukuoka!
sorlo s
Nestled conveniently in the heart of Hakata, the Kushida Shrine is an absolute gem and a must-visit for anyone exploring Fukuoka. As one of the city's oldest shrines, it offers a peaceful escape and a tangible connection to centuries of Japanese culture, all without costing a single yen. Stepping through the imposing wooden gate, you're immediately struck by the shrine's immaculate condition. The...
Crumpled Nomad
Nestled in Hakata, Kushida Shrine is a serene and culturally rich stop well worth your time when exploring Fukuoka. Here’s why it stands out: • Deep Cultural Roots: Founded in 757, this centuries-old Shinto shrine holds strong ties to local heritage, most famously as the center of the vibrant Hakata Gion Yamakasa festival. Witnessing—or even learning about—that history adds a wonderful layer to yo...
H KNJ
Old and popular shrine around this area. Even for me, this was the first visit. The land is not big, but traditional gate, main shrine, etc, all buildings are well maintained and felt my spirit was cleared during the stay and pray here.. *For lucky charm area, photo shoot is not allowed, so please be careful the warnings. I'm pretty sure this visit won't disappoint you :) #tourist spot #shrine...
Raph
Not huge Shrine but it is overflowing with character, sights , sounds and activities We were lucky to witness part of a Japanese wedding procession to the temple for prayers and blessings. What a beautiful couple in a magical season of soft colours from the blooming Cherry Blossoms and Camellias. Highly recommended if you visit Fukuoka.
When is the best time to visit Kushida Shrine (Fukuoka, Japan)?
Visit in mid-July to catch the morning floats race during Hakata Gion Yamakasa. Year-round, floats stand on display inside the main hall.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Ema plaques (2) | JPY 200 |
| Kodomo-mamori charms (2) | JPY 1,000 |
| Total Estimated | JPY 1,200 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Map of Kushida Shrine
Address: 1-41 Kamikawabatamachi, Hakata Ward, Fukuoka, 812-0026, Japan
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About Kushida Shrine
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
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