A hidden 15th Century shrine with panoramic views of Akizuki.
Miyajidake Shrine is dedicated to the god of treasure and can be found hidden tucked away on a hill above the town. The shrine dates back to the 15th century when the location became part of the 24 defensive outposts associated with the main Akizuki fortress.
The structure was originally known as “Toki Yagura” (time tower), and in the Edo period (1603-1868) it hosted a large bell that was used to sound the time. This temple hall is thought to have been built by Kuroda Naoyuki, in the Tensho period (1573-1593).
The tree (prunus zippeliana) in the shrine’s grounds was imported from Sake Shrine in Kama City, on the other side of the mountain to Akizuki. Known as the “gambling tree” its bark dries and falls to the ground as it grows. This is seen as a metaphor for those suffering from gambling addiction, stripped of everything by its curse.
Visitors can write a wish on a wooden tag to seek good fortune. Every year on July 17th, the tags that have been tied beneath the spot marked 福郎 (fukuro) are burnt in a prayer ceremony called Yodo. It is suggested that each person only write one tag, so that the gods can better remember each wish.
GUIDE