Miyajidake Shrine

Miyajidake Shrine sits high on a hill above the town of Fukutsu, about an hour by train from Fukuoka. A long, straight road leads directly from the entrance of the shrine to the sea. Twice a year, for several days in late February and again in late October, the sun sets in perfect alignment with the road, creating a shining golden path to the sea. Miyajidake Shrine is famous for three sacred objects: a five-ton straw rope which hangs in front of the main hall, a giant bass drum, and an enormous bell. Munakata Taisha, a major shrine in the area, is a 15 minute drive or 30 minute bus ride to the north.