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Kushida Shrine

This head shrine is said to have been built in the 8th century. Residents in Hakata call it “Okushida san.” Hakata Gion Yamakasa festival declares the arrival of summer to the City of Hakata in July, and is dedicated to this shrine.

• Fukuoka
• Shrines & Temples

Oiyamanara in front of Kushida Shrine

Oiyamanara begins at Kushida Shrine, Hakata’s guardian shrine. Men in traditional attire carry floats weighing over a ton and race through the streets, shouting “Oisa! Oisa!” The event symbolizes prayers for safety and protection from misfortune and disease, while showcasing Hakata’s strong sense of teamwork.

With more than 760 years of history, this festival is designated as an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property of Japan and is recognized by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage. It’s one of Fukuoka’s most exhilarating summer traditions.

Chichu Art Museum

Across Naoshima you’ll find art installations that blur the line between art and nature. The island is also home to Chichu Art Museum, a gallery designed by world renowned architect Tadao Ando.

• Kagawa
• Museums

Tadao Ando perfectly buries the entire building beneath the hillside, leaving only geometric courtyards and skylights exposed. Walking through the stark geometric lines of the exposed concrete, everything is illuminated solely by natural light flowing freely with the time of day and the weather.
When I stepped into the Monet Water Lilies gallery, the pure white floor beneath my feet—made of tens of thousands of small marble pieces—and the natural light pouring down from above made the paintings, the space, and nature feel completely unified. It was so breathtaking I almost held my breath.
This is not just a place to look at paintings, but a profound dialogue between the body, space, light, and shadow.

Roadside Station Shodoshima Olive Park

This park is popular for its Mediterranean-like scenery and excellent facilities. There are many photo spots that make you want to take pictures, such as a white windmill perched on a hill overlooking the Seto Inland Sea and an English garden with approximately 120 varieties of herbs and roses in full bloom.

• Kagawa
• Parks & Gardens

Standing by the deep blue Seto Inland Sea, Shodoshima Olive Park is full of Mediterranean romance. With the breeze in my face, I borrowed a magic broom from the Olive Memorial Hall and ran toward the tall white Greek-style windmill on the hill. The moment I jumped with all my might and froze under the blue sky and white clouds, it really felt like I had become Kiki, the passionate trainee from Kiki's Delivery Service, flying through the world of a Hayao Miyazaki anime.

Ritsurin Garden

Used as a villa by the Matsudaira clan of Takamatsu, Ritsurin Garden was completed nearly 300 years ago by successive generations of feudal lords who renovated it. While the sprawling strolling garden covers 16 hectares, the total area of this park, including Mount Shiun in the background, extends to an impressive 75 hectares!

• Takamatsu
• Parks & Gardens

Walking among the meticulously trimmed pine groves, this historic daimyo garden perfectly captures the charm of a new view at every step. The lotus pond and Engetsu-kyo Bridge reflect on the clear water, and the harmony and tranquility of the scene are simply breathtaking.