Known for “Karatsu Kunchi”
Old shrine "Karatsu Shrine"

Karatsu Shrine is located in the center of Karatsu City. It is an old shrine that is said to have been built in the Nara period, and is characterized by a large white torii gate. In addition to the three Sumiyoshi deities, the deities enshrined include Munetsugu Kanda, who contributed to the founding of the shrine. The annual autumn festival held from November 2nd to 4th is known as "Karatsu Kunchi" and is a nationally important intangible folk cultural property. The sight of 14 giant floats in the shapes of lions, helmets, sea breams, dragons, etc. parading through the castle town is quite impressive! Hikiyama can be seen at the Hikiyama Exhibition Hall (*due to reconstruction, it will be relocated to Furusato Kaikan Alpino next to Karatsu Station until 2025), so be sure to check it out.

Karatsu Shrine

Address: 3-13 Minamijonai, Karatsu City, Saga Prefecture
Phone: 0955-72-2264
Closed/No holidays