Takeo Shrine
A mysterious place where history and nature come together
Takeo Shrine, located in Takeo City, Saga Prefecture, is a mysterious sacred place surrounded by a rich natural environment and a long history. The shrine was founded in 735, and has a history of over 1,300 years. It has played an important role as the spiritual and cultural center of Kyushu.
History and tradition
The history of Takeo Shrine has continued without interruption from ancient times through the medieval and early modern periods to the present day. During the Heian period, it occupied an important position as a provincial shrine of Dazaifu, and the fact that 218 ancient documents still exist today is testament to its historical importance.
The shrine's deep connection with Minamoto no Yoritomo is another of its charms. At the Battle of Dannoura in 1185, prayers were offered for the defeat of the Taira clan, and Minamoto no Yoritomo, who emerged victorious, expressed his deep gratitude. This led to Takeo Shrine also taking on the role of Kanto Gokitosho, a place where prayers were offered for the Shogunate family.
The charms of Takeo Shrine
In the precincts of Takeo Shrine, you can see giant trees that are hundreds of years old, moss-covered stone lanterns, and stone monuments that tell the story of history, all of which coexist with the natural beauty of the changing seasons. If you walk along the quiet approach to the shrine, you can experience a healing space away from the hustle and bustle of modern life.
The majestic shrine building
The white shrine buildings are named after the egret, which is said to be the messenger of the gods. The shrine buildings, which were rebuilt in 1970 using reinforced concrete, have a solemn atmosphere, with the traditional nagare-zukuri main shrine building and the irimoya-zukuri worship hall with Chinese gables blending together harmoniously.
Mysterious precincts
The precincts of the Takeo Shrine are full of historical and mysterious places to see.
San-no-torii (Hizen Torii)
A magnificent stone torii 4.7 meters high, built in 1641.
Meoto-hinoki (married cypress)
A rare tree with two cypress trees joined together at the base and halfway up the trunk, and is considered a symbol of marriage.
Takeo's Giant Camphor Tree
This giant tree, which is estimated to be 3,000 years old, exudes an overwhelming presence. It is ranked 7th in the national list of giant trees, and is a designated natural monument of Takeo City, which was also selected as one of the “100 Famous Trees of Saga Prefecture”.
Maple Avenue
Beautiful maples have been planted on both sides of the approach to the sacred tree, the giant camphor tree, so you can enjoy the scenery of each season.
Traditional Events
At the Takeo Shrine, the yabusame (horseback archery) ritual, which has been held since the time of Minamoto no Yoritomo, is still performed today. This traditional event is an important one that symbolizes the continuation of the history and culture of the Takeo Shrine.
Access
Takeo Shrine
843-0022
5327 Oaza Takeo, Takeocho, Takeo-shi, Saga-ken
Tel. 0954-22-2976
Googlemap
Takeo Shrine is a sacred place with a history of over 1,300 years,
and is a valuable spot where you can experience the harmony of traditional Japanese culture and nature.
The majestic shrine buildings, the mysterious sacred tree, the beautiful precincts,
and the hot springs and cultural facilities in the surrounding area - the Takeo Shrine and its surroundings are full of charm.
Whether you are interested in history, love nature, want to experience traditional Japanese culture,
or are looking for peace of mind, the Takeo Shrine is a place worth visiting for all kinds of people.
Please come to the Takeo Shrine and experience the heart of Japan that has been passed down through the ages.
Sightseeing
