Atago Shrine is one of those places that you hear about a lot but actually never actually get to. It is positioned in an area that has many more famous attractions and thus seems to get left off most agendas and itineraries.
One this fine sunny day, I decided to take the plunge and check it out. Of course once I got there I was kicking myself, wondering why in the world had I left it too long for a first visit?
Atago Shrine is perched up on a hill with an amazing scenery of the western part of the city with obviously spectacular views of the 2 standout landmarks of the area, namely the Fukuoka Tower and the Fukuoka Dome/ Hilton Seahawk Hotel. In fact, I am sure that there is no where else in the city that offers these panoramic views.
The shrine itself is nothing special and there are many more important and impressive shrines in and around Fukuoka City but I can tell you this there aren't any with better views than this one. I have been told by a few good friends that the sunsets here are sublime as the sun sets in a westerly direction. Haven't had the chance to be here during that time but it's just another to do, and on the list. When I finally do, I will post it here.
Please click here to see the Atago Inari Shrine on a map;
Please click on the photos below to enlarge:
Spectacular views
The gate entrance
People come for the view
It's a popular place.
The Shrine itself is non-descript
What a view!
Fukuoka Tower
Need an amulet?
Please click on the videos below to see more of the Atago Inari Shrine.
One of the more popular Shrines in Fukuoka City is Sumiyoshi Shrine which is located within a 1 km radius of Hakata Station. Realistically a very close and conveniently located Urban site and quite remarkable that such a quiet and open area can be situated so close to a major Train Station. You are enclosed in such a nature filled area that you could be confused that you are in the countryside and not a large metropolitan city, such as Fukuoka.
Our walking tours of Fukuoka always includes a Shrine is our travels as it is a great way to connect to Japanese History and Culture. The Shinto religion encompasses everything Japanese and it is believed that the gods created Japan in its purest form. Sumo, the National Sport of Japan, was originally performed as a Shinto ritual and the Deity of the Sumiyoshi Shrine worshipped Sumo as a result.
In fact, before the annual Kyushu Basho in Fukuoka every November you can see a Sumo Ceremony at the Sumiyoshi Shrine whereby all the Wrestlers pray for healthy and prosperity for the last tournament of the year. I haven`t seen this ceremony yet although I have been to many sumo matches in the past. In the future I will attempt to get some photos and videos of this special and highly respected occasion.
A trip to Sumiyoshi Shrine will be remember for a long time to come.
