Shrine · Fukuoka
Hakozaki Shrine
筥崎宮
Festivals & Events
Tamaseseri
The "Tamatori Matsuri," also known as "Tama Seseri," is held every January 3rd at Hakozaki Shrine, one of Japan's three major Hachiman shrines. Scantily-clad competitors engage in an intense battle over a wooden ball said to ward off misfortune and bring good luck to those who touch it. According to tradition, if the competitor who seizes the ball is on the beach side, it portends a bountiful catch; if on the land side, a rich harvest. Though its exact origins are unclear, the festival is believed to have begun during the Muromachi period around 600 years ago and is recognized nationwide as one of the three major festivals of Kyushu. When Shinto priests hand the wooden ball to a competitor at the Tamatori Ebisu Shrine, an intense struggle unfolds over approximately 200 meters to the main shrine. The competitor who finally seizes the ball presents it to the priests at the tower gate, concluding the ritual.
Hojoue Festival
One of Hakata's three major festivals, alongside Hakata Dontaku in spring and Hakata Gion Yamakasa in summer. Held at Hakozaki Shrine for over a thousand years, this festival cherishes all life, warns against taking life, and gives thanks for autumn's harvest. During the seven-day period, various sacred rituals and festive events take place, attracting approximately one million worshippers annually. Hundreds of food stalls line the approach to the shrine, where visitors seek Hakozaki Shrine's specialty—yakimochi (shrine date rice cakes)—and lucky charms called 'Hakozaki-miya Ohajiki' crafted by Hakata doll artisans. The Goshinko procession with sacred portable shrines, held once every two years, is designated as Fukuoka City's Intangible Folk Cultural Property.
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Deities & History
Hakozaki Shrine is dedicated to the kami (deity) Hachiman — the divine protector associated with warriors, archery, and the nation of Japan. Three deities are enshrined here: Emperor Ōjin (the human manifestation of Hachiman), Empress Zingū (his mother, renowned for her legendary overseas campaigns), and Tamayori-hime (a sea goddess and ancestor of the imperial line). The shrine is revered for blessings in victory and competition, protection from enemies, and safe seafaring. It is a popular destination for those seeking good fortune in sports, business, and examinations.
Practical Information
Nearest Station: 3-minute walk from Hakozaki-miyamae Station (Exit 1), Fukuoka City Subway Hakozaki Line. Also an 8-minute walk from Hakozaki Station on the JR Kagoshima Line.
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