Chikuzen Kunoichi no Miya Sumiyoshi Shrine

Of the more than 2,100 Sumiyoshi shrines in Japan, the oldest is Sumiyoshi Shrine, located in Fukuoka City. The three deities of Sumiyoshi have long been worshipped as guardians of safety on voyages and at sea, and as protectors against all kinds of misfortune. The shrine is also called “Sumiyoshi Honsha” or “Japan's First Sumiyoshi Shrine” in ancient books, and is one of the “Three Great Sumiyoshi Shrines” in Japan, along with Osaka and Shimonoseki.
The shrine pavilions are built in the “Sumiyoshi-zukuri” style, which is said to be the oldest shrine architecture style in history. The simple design based on straight lines is beautiful, and has been designated as a national important cultural property. The spacious precincts of the shrine are filled with many attractions, such as the Noh stage and Tenryu Pond, as well as the eight auxiliary and subordinate shrines. Just walking around the shrine grounds is a relaxing experience of history and nature.
Sumiyoshi Shrine also has deep ties with sumo, and a statue of an ancient sumo wrestler stands on the shrine grounds. The right hand of the statue has a crease that looks like the character for “power,” and it is said that touching the hand will give you power. Sumo fans and those who wish to feel the power of sumo are welcome to visit.