Guide
Ukiha Inari Shrine is a beautiful Shinto shrine located within Jogahana Park in Ukiha City, Fukuoka Prefecture. Established in 1957, the shrine was founded by inviting (kanjo) the deity from the famous Fushimi Inari Taisha in Kyoto. The shrine is the centerpiece of the park, creating a striking landscape with its bright vermilion torii gates and elegant shrine buildings. It serves as both a sacred place of worship for the local community and a peaceful retreat for visitors to the park.
The history of this shrine is closely tied to the development of Jogahana Park in the late 1950s. Local residents planned the park as a community space, with the vision of building an Inari Shrine at its heart to serve as a spiritual center. The new shrine building was dedicated in December 1957, and the site was officially recognized as a religious corporation in 1958. By inheriting the traditions of Kyoto's Fushimi Inari, the shrine has become a deeply rooted part of the local culture. The enshrined deities include Inadama-no-Okami, Oyamakushi-no-Kami, and Sugawara no Michizane.
The most striking feature is the harmony between the natural park landscape and the vivid vermilion torii gates and shrine architecture. Mode2led after the famous Fushimi Inari in Kyoto, the visual impact is truly unforgettable. The shrine also features the 'Oku-no-in' (inner sanctuary) known as Matsuo Tenjin, which adds spiritual depth to the complex. Visitors can also experience unique seasonal events, such as the 'Un-tameshi' (luck-testing/lottery) held during the New Year period.
The shrine is generally unstaffed, offering a quiet and serene atmosphere for daily prayer. On the 1st of every month, starting from 6:30 AM, special prayers for business prosperity and safety are conducted. The shrine also comes alive during major seasonal festivals, such as the New Year celebrations (January 1st), the second 'Ogami-hi' (early spring ritual) in February, and the Spring Grand Festival in April. A special event called 'Un-tameshi' is also held from 10:00 PM on December 31st until 5:00 PM on January 3rd.
Visitors can receive a Goshuin (sacred-ink calligraphy stamp) as a souvenir of their visit. Goshuin can be obtained at the shrine's way station (10:00 AM – 4:00 PM) or at the affiliated Sunpit Value Ukiha store (10:00 AM – 6:00 PM). The surrounding park area is also an excellent place for a relaxing stroll to enjoy the scenery.
The shrine is situated inside Jogahana Park, making it easy to combine a spiritual visit with a nature walk. It is located south of Ukiha Station along Prefectural Road 52, making it a convenient stop on a regional sightseeing route.
When visiting, please follow standard Shinto shrine etiquette. If you wish to receive a Goshuin, please prepare exact cash (e.g., 300 or 500 yen). For the New Year 'Un-tameshi' event, the fee is 1,000 yen per attempt.