Okada Shrine is an ancient shrine located in Kitakyushu City, Fukuoka Prefecture, and it’s a historical site where Emperor Jinmu is said to have stayed during his eastern expedition. This article will introduce the origins of Okada Shrine, its sacred treasures, and access methods.
History of Okada Shrine
Okada Shrine was relocated from Yamadera-cho to its current location around 1605 when Kurozaki Castle was built and Kurozaki-juku was developed. This shrine is an ancient shrine that appears in the “Kojiki” (Records of Ancient Matters), and it is believed that Emperor Jinmu stayed here for one year during his eastern expedition. Okada Shrine has three main shrines: Ten-no-Miya (Heaven Shrine), Chi-no-Miya (Earth Shrine), and Hito-no-Miya (Human Shrine), each enshrining different deities. Ten-no-Miya enshrines Amaterasu Omikami, Chi-no-Miya enshrines Okuninushi no Mikoto, and Hito-no-Miya enshrines Emperor Ojin.
Sacred Treasures of Okada Shrine
At Okada Shrine, bronze bells from around the 5th century and ring-shaped three bells have been excavated and are preserved as sacred treasures. These sacred treasures were bestowed by the Yamato Imperial Court and are considered valuable historical materials that indicate the shrine’s connection to Emperor Jinmu. In addition, Okada Shrine also has the “Taiko-ro” (Drum Tower), which is said to be the oldest wooden structure in Japan, and the “Smallest Torii Gate in Japan,” which are also must-see attractions.
Access Information
Business Hours: Reception hours: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Location: 1-1 Okada-cho, Yahata Nishi Ward, Kitakyushu City, Fukuoka Prefecture, 806-0033
Transportation Access:
(1) Kitakyushu Expressway: Exit from the Kurozaki Interchange toward Hikinoguchi, and go towards Kurozaki on Route 200 for about 10 minutes.
(2) Nishitetsu Bus: Get off at the “Kumade-dori” bus stop and walk for about 3 minutes.
(3) JR: Get off at “JR Kurozaki Station” and walk for about 7 minutes.
(4) Located across from the Yahata Kumade Post Office.
Okada Shrine is a shrine where you can feel the ancient history and culture of Japan. Please be sure to visit it.
Photo Gallery
