If you want to visit a shrine in Yanagawa, Mihashira Shrine (三柱神社), located on the northern outskirts of Yanagawa Station, is a good choice. Not only is the shrine a religious and historical spot, but a large part of its precinct has been turned into Takahatake Park (高畑公園). It is now a popular destination for viewing cherry blossoms in Yanagawa. In addition to the greenery, the park features a large pond where many carp swim freely. Thus, even if you aren’t interested in praying, you can still visit Mihashira Shrine for a rest or a picnic. Moreover, it is one of Japan’s National Places of Scenery Beauty!
About Mihashira Shrine
Miharashi Shrine was erected in 1783 on the grounds of Chōkyūji Temple (長久寺), located within Yanagawa Castle’s outer enceinte (三の丸), and was relocated to its current location in 1825. The shrine was named after the three main deities enshrined there: Tachibana Muneshige (立花 宗茂), the first lord of the Yanagawa Domain, his wife Ginchiyo (ぎんちよ), and Ginchiyo’s father, Bekki Dōsetsu (戸次 道雪). As Muneshige was known as The Unrivaled Warrior in the West (西国無双), and Dōsetsu was nicknamed Thunder God (雷神) because of his fierceness, Mihashira Shrine in Yanagawa is popular among history buffs.
Although Muneshige was demoted for joining the Toyotomi clan’s force in the Battle of Sekigahara, he was later allowed to return to his former position as lord of Yanagawa. As he is the only feudal lord in Japan who was able to return to his former territory, the amulets from Mitsuhashira Shrine are said to bring good fortune in regaining power, fulfilling long-cherished wishes, and job hunting.
Unfortunately, most of the shrine structure was destroyed in a fire in 2005. But the main worship hall wasn’t affected, probably due to the god’s blessing. After all, it is where they live! While most of the old buildings have been lost, the bridge at the starting point of the approach dates back to the Edo period. It used to bridge the outer citadel (二の丸) and the outer enceinte of Yanagawa Castle.
Tip: Mihashira Shrine has nighttime illumination when the 500 cherry trees are blooming in early spring.
Onigie Festival (御賑会) at Mihashira Shrine
The Onigie Festival is Mihashira Shrine’s biggest event. The 3-day autumn festival, held in mid-October, is known for its Divine Procession (御神幸行列). This festival’s name, meaning “full of life” (大賑わい), is an important event that signals the arrival of autumn in Yanagawa.
The Onigie Festival is usually held three days before and after the second Sunday in October. The area around the shrine is bustling with stalls, providing visitors with a fun time. Furthermore, limited edition paper-cutting goshuin is available during the festival. If you are a goshuin collector, plan your visit accordingly!
Mihashira Shrine’s Opening Hours and Access Information
- Mihashira Shrine’s office is open from 9 am to 5 pm.
- The shrine is a 10-minute walk from Nishitestu Yanagawa Station (西鉄柳川駅).
