Shikaumi Shrine is located on Shikanoshima Island in Fukuoka City. The island is known for its bountiful waters, stunning coastal views, and shrines and temples with deep historic roots. It is easily accessible from Fukuoka Airport and central areas like Tenjin and Hakata by ferry, bus, or car. During this tour, the shrine priest will guide guests around the grounds, teaching about different customs and the shrine’s history. Afterward, visitors will enter the Main Hall—a space typically off-limits—and experience a special morning prayer ceremony. After the ceremony, watch as the sky brightens with morning light from the shrine’s extraordinary viewpoint that overlooks the sea. This is a unique opportunity to connect with oneself and soak in the refreshing atmosphere as dawn breaks over the water below.

Tour content

Shikaumi Shrine: The Guardian Deity of Hakata Bay 

Shikaumi Shrine on Shikanoshima is dedicated to the three deities of the sea who emerged during the purification ceremony of Izanagi-no-Mikoto, the central god in the myth of Japan’s creation. Since ancient times, Shikaumi Shrine has been revered as the “Head Shrine of the Sea Gods” and the “City of Dragons.” The shrine is also worshiped as the guardian shrine of Hakata Bay, a vital maritime transportation hub that overlooks the Genkai Sea.

Experience Morning Purification and Daybreak Over the Sea

During the tour, guests will have the opportunity to enter the Shrine’s Main Hall – a space typically off-limits – and experience a special morning prayer ceremony led by the shrine priest. Listen to the sounds of the drum and chanting in this moving experience. After the ceremony, watch as the sky brightens with morning light from the shrine’s extraordinary viewpoint that overlooks the sea. This is a unique opportunity to connect with oneself and soak in the refreshing atmosphere as dawn breaks over the water below.

Destination Info

Shikanoshima: The Historic Gateway to Kyushu and Beyond

Shikanoshima is home to notable shrines, temples, and scenic spots. It also carries a deep history, said to date back more than 2,000 years. Visitors can reach the island by car, bus, or a 30-min ferry ride from Hakata Port. Guests who visit can savor seafood caught right from neighboring waters, stroll along a beach famous for its panoramic sunsets, and discover the spiritual practices of local shrines and temples. Since this tour begins early in the morning, we recommend guests stay on Shikanoshima or nearby in Saitozaki.

Additional Info

Language: This tour is conducted in Japanese. Supplementary English materials can be provided.

Participants: Minimum 2 people / Maximum 10. (Children under 5 years can accompany guardians free of charge.)

Notes: In case of severe weather, the tour may be canceled.

Start Time: The tour will start roughly 30 minutes before sunrise between 5:30 and 7:00 am. The exact start time will be communicated once the date is confirmed.  

Shikaumi Shrine

877 Shikashima, Higashi Ward, Fukuoka, 811-0323

Free parking is available near the shrine. The priest will meet you at the entrance of the shrine at the bottom of the steps.

Travel Planning: Implementation

UNA Laboratories Inc. (Fukuoka Prefectural Governor Registration #2-951)

3-12-22-302 Yakuin, Chuo-ku, Fukuoka-shi, Fukuoka Prefecture 810-0022

TEL: 092-982-7956

E-MAIL: tour@unalabs.jp

Business Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday (Closed Saturdays, Sundays, and Holidays)

Requests received outside of business hours will be processed the following business day.