Kora Taisha Shrine

A prayer for good health and a bountiful harvest

The Mino Mountain Range where Kora Taisha Shrine stands was formed in an east-west direction through repeated faulting around the end of the Paleozoic era, or approximately 200 to 300 million years ago.

Extending east to west for about 30 kilometers, the mountain range is comprised of Mount Takatori, Mount Hosshin, Mount Mino, and Mount Kora. Due to its imposing sheer cliffs that resemble a “byobu” folding screen, the mountain range is also known as Byobu-yama. Thousands of ancient mounds are found in the mountains, which shows that the mountain range has been a special place for local people since olden times. In addition, Kurume is a city steeped in history with a wealth of historic sites, temples, and shrines.

A majestic shrine in the Chikugo region

Constructed in 400 A.D., Kora Taisha Shrine was ordained as one of the most important shrines in the region that appears in the Engishiki, an ancient book of laws and regulations written over a thousand years ago. Today, the shrine is famous for offering benefits in warding off evil spirits as well as longevity. The current main sanctuary built during the Edo Period is one of the largest sanctuaries in Kyushu and has been designated as an important cultural property of Japan. In addition to other assets such as the Kogoishi Rock, a designated national historic site, visitors can also enjoy splendid views from the shrine. Held in August, the Kento-sai festival is a representative summer event that captivates visitors with a sublime scenery of the vermillion torii gate standing at the end of the lantern-lit path against a backdrop of the night view of the city.