The Sumiyoshi Shrine, the oldest of over 2,000 Sumiyoshi Shrines across Japan, has long been revered for ensuring maritime safety and protecting ships. The annual grand festival originated as a tribute of sumo wrestling and horseback archery (yabusame) to give thanks for the safe return of Empress Jingu from Korea.
The festival begins with a night celebration on the 12th at 4:00 p.m. On the 13th, the main shrine will host rituals starting at 10:00 a.m., including a sumo tournament with 40 local elementary and junior high school students, followed by a yabusame performance around 11:00 a.m. The closing ritual (Nohsai) will be held on the 14th at 10:00 a.m.
• 10/12 (Sat.) ~ 10/14 (Mon., hol.)
• Horseback archery event: 10/13 (Sun.) 11:00~
• Sumiyoshi Shrine
• 3-1-51 Sumiyoshi, Hakata-ku, Fukuoka
• https://www.nihondaiichisumiyoshigu.jp/rituals/
