Kushida Shrine (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Kushida Shrine?
What makes it 81% Kids-Friendly: School-age children enjoy the bright festival floats, lifting the smaller power stone, and drawing wishes on ema; flat paths and toilets help, but no playground and festival rush demand close supervision.
Positives:
- Kid-friendly activities: Children can lift stones, draw on ema, and explore floats hands-on
- Barrier-free access: Paved paths and ramps make stroller and wheelchair access easy
Challenges:
- Festival crowds: Early July Hakata Gion Yamakasa period can be very busy on site
- Limited seating: Few benches on the grounds; bring a small mat or portable seat
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?
- Interactive stone-lifting challenge for kids
- Vibrant festival floats to admire and photograph
- Hands-on wish writing with wooden ema
- Children’s protection charms available on site
- Easy stroller access and shaded rest spots
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours
Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Allows time to view floats, try stone lifting, write ema, and rest under trees
Kids-Friendly Activities in Kushida Shrine
View festival floats:
Explore the colorful Kazari Yamakasa floats displayed on the shrine grounds
Tip: Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and let kids take photos up close
Lift the Chikara-ishi:
Try lifting the smaller power stone as a team
Tip: Have each child place both hands under the stone and lift slowly together
Write and hang an ema:
Buy wooden plaques and let each child draw or write a wish
Tip: Purchase four plaques (¥100 each) so every family member can join
Buy kodomo-mamori:
Get children’s protection charms from the shrine office
Tip: Ask for “kodomo-mamori”; each costs about ¥500
Photo under the ginkgo:
Relax and take a family photo by the ancient ginkgo tree
Tip: In autumn, the golden leaves make a vibrant backdrop
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Kushida Shrine
- Arrive before opening: Get there by 8 AM to enjoy cooler temps and quieter grounds
- Buy charms and ema together: Stop at the shrine office first to purchase both items in one visit
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)?
In early July see floats in preparation for Hakata Gion Yamakasa, in autumn enjoy golden ginkgo leaves, and on February 2–3 watch Setsubun bean throwing
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Ema plaques (4×¥100) | JPY 400 |
| Kodomo-mamori charms (2×¥500) | JPY 1,000 |
| Adult omamori (2×¥500) | JPY 1,000 |
| Parking (1 hour) | JPY 200 |
| Total Estimated | JPY 2,600 |
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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