Tashima Shrine

Overview

Tashima Shrine stands on Kabe Island in Yobuko Town, Karatsu City, Saga Prefecture. The area corresponds to Matsurokoku, described in the Wajinden records as the first land of the mainland of Wakoku, and it served as a key point for safe sea crossings to the continent, receiving attention from the central government since ancient times. It was the only Myojin Taisha in Hizen Province.

Highlights

• ●The only Myojin Taisha ranked shrine in Hizen Province
• ●Recorded in earlier times as 'Tajima Niimasu Kaminoyashiro'
• ●A location tied to safe sea crossings to the continent
• ●Association with the legendary figure Matsura Sayohime

History

In earlier times the shrine was known as 'Tajima Niimasu Kaminoyashiro'. It was the only Myojin Taisha in Hizen Province and was at times regarded as the province's Ichinomiya. Following the reforms of the Meiji era it was classified as a Kokuhei Chusha, and today it is a beppyo shrine of the Association of Shinto Shrines. It is also said to be a source shrine associated with Munakata Taisha.

Map

33.5559, 129.8904 · Wikidata

Suggested itinerary

1. 1Cross over to Kabe Island toward Tashima Shrine
2. 2View the shrine buildings and cherry-blossom crests in the grounds
3. 3Learn about its standing as the only Myojin Taisha in Hizen Province
4. 4Discover the legend linking the site to Matsura Sayohime

Did you know?

💡 Of the four cherry-blossom crests, the mukai-zakura design is currently used on the shrine's goshuin seal.

Nearby spots