Shikaumi Shrine

Shikaumi Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Fukuoka. It is located on Shikanoshima island where the Azumi people used to live. The famous King of Na gold seal was discovered on the same island as the shrine. The shrine has historical connections to foreign wars because it was the place from which Empress Jingū launched her invasion of Korea, and it was also a site of conflict during the Mongol invasions of Japan. The Azumi people traditionally followed the sea God, Watatsumi. The Shrine is considered their ancestral shrine and honors their god Watatsumi. The shrine is taken care of by a priest who is believed to be a descendant of the Azumi clan. The biennial gojinkosai ceremony held at the shrine is recognized as an intangible cultural property by the prefecture. The shrine, incorporates a deer motif in its rituals and designs. The deer motif is significant to the Azumi people and their beliefs, and is a common feature in the historic culture of the region. References