Munakata Taisha Shrine, located in Munakata City, Fukuoka Prefecture, is the head shrine of approximately 6,000 Munakata Shrines throughout the country. It is one of the oldest shrines in Japan and was registered as a World Cultural Heritage site in 2017.
Let’s Offer Prayers at Munakata Taisha Shrine
Traffic Safety Prayers! Munakata Taisha Shrine is the best guardian of all roads, and many people visit to pray for traffic safety. The “Mizuhiki Mamori,” a traffic safety amulet exclusively for automobiles, which is said to be the first of its kind distributed in Japan, is particularly popular.
World Heritage Site! In 2017, it was registered as a World Cultural Heritage site as “Sacred Island of Okinoshima and Associated Sites in the Munakata Region.” It consists of three shrines: Hetsu-miya, Nakatsu-miya, and Okitsu-miya, each enshrining different deities.
Precious Cultural Properties! The Shinpokan (Treasure Museum) houses approximately 80,000 precious cultural properties, including national treasures that were offered in rituals from the ancient Yamato Imperial Court. It is a must-see for history fans.
Abundant Nature! Hetsu-miya is located in a lush green forest. You can spend a relaxing time in a quiet space.
Munakata Taisha Shrine Basic Information
| Item | Content |
| Address | 2331 Tajima, Munakata City, Fukuoka Prefecture (Hetsu-miya) |
| Access | About 12 minutes by car from JR Kagoshima Main Line “Akama Station” About 12 minutes by Nishitetsu Bus “Bound for Kaminato Hatoba via Munakata Taisha” from JR Togo Station North Exit, get off at “Munakata Taisha Mae” |
| Parking | Approximately 1000 spaces (free) |
| Telephone Number | 0940-62-1311 |
| Opening Hours | Grounds are open at any time (Shinpokan 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM) |
At Munakata Taisha Shrine, let’s pray for traffic safety and have a safe new year!