Sumiyoshi Shrine (with baby)
How Baby-Friendly is Sumiyoshi Shrine?
What makes it 58% Baby-Friendly: Paths suit strollers, but toilets have no change tables and no nursing room is on site, so caregivers must detour to nearby city Baby Stations for feeding or diaper changes.
Positives:
- Stroller-friendly paths: Most walkways are paved and level for easy stroller use.
- Peaceful atmosphere: Low visitor numbers let you explore calmly without rushing.
Challenges:
- Limited baby facilities: No on-site nursing room or changing table in restrooms.
- Basic restrooms: Toilets lack diaper-changing counters; bring your own mat.
What is Sumiyoshi Shrine?
- A Shinto shrine that honours the Sumiyoshi Sanjin—gods of sea navigation and waka poetry—dating back to ancient Chikuzen province
- Showcases Sumiyoshi-zukuri architecture through its straight-roofed main hall, which the government protects as a national treasure
- Nestles within a tree-filled park that once formed a cape at the mouth of the Nakagawa River, underscoring its historical role as a tutelary shrine for sailors
What is so special about Sumiyoshi Shrine for with baby?
- Flat, paved grounds ideal for strollers.
- National treasure main hall with unique roof style.
- Sacred camphor tree and sumo statue for photo moments.
- Colorful carp pond entertains both adults and baby.
- October festival adds free archery and sumo demos.
Recommended visit duration: 1 hour
Why 1 hour visit duration is ideal for with baby: Short visit keeps baby comfortable while you explore the main hall and grounds.
Baby-Friendly Activities in Sumiyoshi Shrine
Stroll flat shrine grounds:
Walk the paved paths under torii gates and camphor trees.
Tip: Use a stroller or baby carrier; paths are wide and level.
Admire the Sumiyoshi-zukuri main hall:
View the straight-roofed national treasure building.
Tip: Take photos from the front steps to capture its ancient style.
Visit the 1,000-year-old camphor tree:
See the massive sacred tree near the hall.
Tip: Hold your baby safely and feel the tree’s wide trunk.
Watch carp in Tenryu Pond:
See colorful fish swim in the pond.
Tip: Bring a small snack to calm your baby while pointing to the fish.
Touch the sumo statue:
Try the ‘power stone’ for good luck.
Tip: Let your baby touch it too; smooth surface is safe.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Sumiyoshi Shrine
- Use nearby Baby Stations: Visit Rakusuien or Hakata Station Baby Stations for diaper changes.
- Go early: Arrive at 9AM to avoid crowds and find parking easily.
Reviews of Sumiyoshi Shrine
Hà Minh Dũng
a must visit shrine in fukuoka. a bit restricted on taking photo but to enjoy the scenery, the shrine and observing the quietness. it is highly recommended
Michelle Yeung
Big inner city shrine with grounds. Not too busy so you can have a calm walk around. Hand written Goshuin available.
Siu Y Lo
I visited the shrine on 7 May 2025, which was just one day after the public holidays in Japan, therefore there were only a few visitors in the shrine. It is a small shrine located not far from Hakata station. There is not much to offer for tourists as the shrine looks a bit typical and local. However, it provides a certain degree of tranquility in the city of Fukuoka, which can be a good refreshin...
Natthakit Yodrach
This shrine offers a spacious, peaceful retreat under a towering sacred tree, right in the middle of the city. Surrounded by modern buildings, it’s not hidden, yet it holds a deep sense of sanctity. Ceremonies are held here, and many people come to pray, adding to its spiritual atmosphere. I also took a walk to the nearby river, which has a fascinating historical story. The shrine is not only bea...
Julio Isaac
This is probably one of the most serene places that I have ever been to out here in Japan. It is not huge but it’s big enough that it will take you at least an hour to really see everything. The main shrine was meticulously manicured almost to perfection. In contrast to that, I think the water garden needs a little more love but it wasn’t an eyesore by any means. It has parking exclusively for the...
When is the best time to visit Sumiyoshi Shrine (Fukuoka, Japan)?
Visit around October 13 to see traditional yabusame archery and children’s sumo matches at no extra cost.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 3 (2 Adults + 1 Baby)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Entry fee | JPY 0 |
| Omikuji fortune slips (2 adults) | JPY 200 |
| Shrine seal (goshuin) | JPY 500 |
| Rickshaw ride (2 adults) | JPY 2,000 |
| Total Estimated | JPY 2,700 |
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 Sumiyoshi Shrine
Address: 3-chōme-1-51 Sumiyoshi, Hakata Ward, Fukuoka, 812-0018, Japan
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About Sumiyoshi 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
+81 92-291-267010 BEST nearby Activities
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