Taga Shrine

Overview

Taga Shrine is located in Nogata City, Fukuoka Prefecture. Formerly known as Hiwakamiya, it is dedicated to Izanagi-no-okami and Izanami-no-okami. While the founding year is unknown, it is believed to have existed since the Heian period. It has been known by various names throughout history, including Hiwakamiya, Tagamiya, and Myoken Daimyojin. In 736 AD (Tenpyo 8), influenced by the syncretism of Shinto and Buddhism, it became associated with Myoken faith, and was called Myoken Daimyojin Taga O-kami. The mountain on which Taga Shrine sits is also called Myoken-yama. In 1691 (Genroku 4), the shrine's name was changed to Taga O-kami, and later to its current name, Taga Shrine. Taga Shrine is famous for the Nogata Yamakasa festival. The Nogata Yamakasa festival began when the Nogata feudal lord revived the temporarily suspended Goshin-sai festival in the Edo period and dedicated Yamakasa floats. Previously, seven districts participated; currently, four districts participate. Additionally, a traditional dance called Hiwaka Odori is preserved at Taga Shrine. Hiwaka Odori is a fusion of the Hiwaka Mai, a traditional dance passed down at Taga Shrine, and the Soganbashi Odori, a popular dance of the Edo period. The dance is performed with a preserved dance manual, Hiwaka Odori Tempon, featuring a central umbrella, singers, musicians, and dancers performing in a circle. Currently, this tradition is maintained by three districts. Taga Shrine is a valuable site where you can experience history and traditional culture. Be sure to visit when you come to Nogata City.