Suiju Shrine

Overview

Suiju Shrine is located in Akizuki, Asakura City, Fukuoka Prefecture. It honors Nagokoro Kuroda, the first feudal lord of the Akizuki clan, and his achievements. It also enshrines successive feudal lords, their wives and children, and those from Akizuki who died in battle. In 1859 (Ansei 6), Nagamoto Kuroda, the 10th feudal lord of the Akizuki clan, applied for a divine title from the Yoshida family in Kyoto to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the first lord Nagokoro's death, commissioning Miyoshi Yasuchika, the chief priest of Akizuki Hachiman Shrine. The Yoshida family granted the title of 'Suiyu Myojin,' and the divine spirit was enshrined in the Hachiman Shrine's inner shrine. Then, from 1872 (Meiji 5), construction of the shrine's main building at its present location was completed over three years. In 1880 (Meiji 13), the Otemon Gate (commonly known as Kuro-mon, or Black Gate) of Akizuki Castle was relocated to the shrine grounds. Former Akizuki clan samurai were central to the construction of the shrine building and grounds, so the stone steps leading up to the shrine are known as "Shizoku-zaka" (Samurai Slope). In 1947 (Showa 22), the successive feudal lords and their wives and children, along with those who died in battles from the Shimabara Rebellion to the Pacific War, were enshrined together. Suiju Shrine offers a tranquil space where history and nature intertwine, and it's renowned for its autumn foliage. In autumn, the grounds are bathed in vibrant crimson and gold, creating a magical atmosphere. The area is also dotted with spots perfect for exploring Akizuki Castle Ruins and Akizuki town, making it ideal for a leisurely day trip.