Miyajidake Shrine, located in Fukutsu City, Fukuoka Prefecture, is a renowned cherry blossom viewing destination, attracting thousands of visitors each year. The shrine is home to approximately 2,000 cherry trees, creating a mesmerizing display of pink and white blossoms from early March to mid-April. The shrine’s iconic “Good Fortune Cherry Blossom” (Kaun Zakura), which often blooms as early as January, is a symbol of early spring and good luck. With its combination of historical significance, spiritual charm, and natural beauty, Miyajidake Shrine is a must-visit location during the cherry blossom season.

Why Miyajidake Shrine is Worth Visiting

• Good Fortune Cherry Blossom: Located next to the main shrine hall, this unique tree blooms as early as January, sometimes with snow-covered petals, attracting visitors seeking both natural beauty and good fortune.
• Diverse Cherry Blossom Varieties: The shrine features both early-blooming Kawazu-zakura with its vibrant pink petals and the widely beloved Somei Yoshino, known for its pale pink to white flowers.
• Scenic Viewing Spots: Visitors can enjoy stunning views from the shrine’s observation deck, which offers a breathtaking vista of cherry blossoms set against Miyajihama Beach and the Genkai Sea.
• Illuminated Night Blossoms] Evening illuminations create a magical atmosphere, highlighting the cherry blossoms against the shrine’s traditional architecture.
• Annual Cherry Blossom Festival: The festival, typically held in early April, features Shinto rituals, cultural performances, and a variety of local gourmet food stalls.

Miyajidake Shrine Cherry Blossoms

Miyajidake Shrine’s cherry blossom season is a spectacular event, with thousands of trees transforming the shrine grounds into a sea of pink. The Good Fortune Cherry Blossom (Kaun Zakura) is the first to bloom, often in January, marking the unofficial start of spring. Visitors flock to the shrine to witness this auspicious sight, which is considered a harbinger of good luck.

Following Kaun Zakura, the vibrant Kawazu-zakura begins to bloom from early February to early March, offering a striking contrast with its deep pink petals and long-lasting blossoms. As spring progresses, the iconic Somei Yoshino takes center stage in early April, creating the quintessential cherry blossom landscape synonymous with hanami (flower viewing) in Japan. The shrine grounds also feature double-flowered cherry trees and other seasonal blooms, such as peonies and azaleas, adding to the scenic beauty.

Cherry Blossom Festival Highlights

The Miyajidake Shrine Cherry Blossom Festival is a vibrant celebration that typically lasts for about 10 days in early April. During this time, visitors can enjoy a range of cultural and seasonal activities:

• Traditional Shinto ceremonies, including the Spring Grand Festival.
• Local food stalls offering Fukutsu City specialties.
• Family-friendly activities and stage performances.
• Beautiful nighttime illuminations of the cherry blossoms.

Miyajidake Shrine Facilities & Amenities

Miyajidake Shrine offers several amenities to enhance the visitor experience. The shrine provides a spacious parking lot with approximately 700 spaces to accommodate peak-season crowds. The conferment office is open daily from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM, offering spiritual services such as First Earning Fee prayers and on-site rituals.

The shrine grounds also include the Minjia Village Nature Park, where visitors can explore traditional Japanese houses. During special events like Tsuitachi Mairi, souvenir and food stalls line the shrine pathways, adding to the festive atmosphere. Public transportation options are conveniently located near the shrine entrance, ensuring easy accessibility.

Dining Options

Visitors can indulge in a variety of local delicacies around Miyajidake Shrine. Seasonal food stalls set up during the Cherry Blossom Festival offer regional specialties such as taiyaki (fish-shaped cakes), yakitori (grilled skewered chicken), and warm bowls of udon. For a sit-down meal, local restaurants in Fukutsu City serve fresh seafood, traditional Japanese dishes, and Fukuoka’s famous tonkotsu ramen. Many eateries near the shrine provide outdoor seating, allowing guests to enjoy their meals while taking in the picturesque cherry blossoms.

Travel Tips

• Visit in late February or October to witness the “Path of Light” phenomenon, where the setting sun aligns perfectly with the shrine’s main approach.
• Take the #1-1 bus from Fukuma Station to “Miyajidake-jinjya-mae” for a convenient and direct route.
• Arrive early in the morning or on weekdays to avoid peak crowds during the cherry blossom season.
• Participate in Tsuitachi Mairi, a special midnight prayer ceremony held on the first day of each month, for a unique spiritual experience.

How to Get to Miyajidake Shrine

Miyajidake Shrine is easily accessible from Fukuoka City. The nearest train station is Fukuma Station, which is about a 43-minute ride from Hakata Station via the JR Kagoshima Main Line. From Fukuma Station, visitors can take the #1-1 bus bound for Tsuyazaki-bashi and get off at Miyajidake-jinjya-mae, a short walk from the shrine.

For those traveling by car, Miyajidake Shrine is approximately 22 minutes from Hakata Station, and the shrine’s spacious parking lot makes driving a convenient option. Taxis from Fukuma Station provide a direct and comfortable alternative for visitors who prefer not to take public transportation.

Nearby Attractions

Beyond cherry blossoms, Miyajidake Shrine is surrounded by attractions worth exploring. Miyajihama Beach, just a short drive away, offers stunning coastal views and a relaxing seaside experience. Another highlight is Oshima Island, accessible by ferry, where visitors can enjoy hiking trails and breathtaking ocean scenery. The Munakata Taisha Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is also nearby, featuring historical shrines dedicated to sea deities.

Nearby Cherry Blossom Spots

For those looking to explore more cherry blossom locations, several spots near Miyajidake Shrine offer stunning seasonal displays. Aburayama Shimin no Mori, located in Fukuoka City, features vast cherry blossom groves and scenic hiking trails. Maizuru Park, home to the ruins of Fukuoka Castle, boasts an incredible hanami experience with illuminated cherry blossoms at night. Nishi Park, known for its peaceful ambiance and panoramic city views, is another excellent spot for cherry blossom enthusiasts.