📕 Goshuin from visitors
Naminoue-gu
〒900-0031 沖縄県那覇市若狭１丁目２５−１１
Located in Wakaza, Naha City, this shrine is the foremost of the Ryukyu Hachasha (Eight Great Shrines of the Ryukyu Kingdom) and is revered as the chief guardian shrine of Okinawa. The enshrined deities are the Kumano Gongen trio: Isora-no-Mikoto, Hayatama-no-Ookami, and Kototoshi-no-Ookami. Although the founding date is unknown, the shrine has been situated on a cliff overlooking the sea (literally 'above the waves') since the Ryukyu Kingdom era, where it was venerated as a protective shrine for the royal government. The Ryukyu Hachasha were official shrines managed by the Ryukyu Kingdom, with Naminoue-gu holding the highest rank. The vermilion-painted shrine buildings stand on a high ground overlooking Naha Port, contrasting beautifully with the blue sea and sky, forming one of Okinawa's iconic landscapes. The shrine was destroyed during the Battle of Okinawa in 1945 CE (Showa 20) but was rebuilt after the war. As the oldest and most prestigious shrine in Okinawa Prefecture, it serves as the center for citizens' life rituals, including Hatsumode (first shrine visit of the New Year), first shrine visits for newborns, and Shichi-Go-San (celebrations for children aged seven, five, and three).
Enshrined deities
Izanagi & Izanami
History
As the highest-ranking shrine among the Ryukyu Hachasha, situated on a cliff overlooking the sea, it is affectionately known as 'Namin-san'. It has long gathered faith for safe navigation.
Blessings
It is worshipped for the benefit of fulfilling heartfelt wishes.
What visitors say
The shrine is located near Kokusai-dori (International Street), making it easily accessible. From the precincts, visitors can enjoy beautiful views of the sea and sandy beaches, characterized by a solemn atmosphere harmonized with coastal nature. The large torii gate and red-tiled roofs are particularly impressive. After worship, visitors can also enjoy a stroll along the beach.
Opening hours
- Monday: 9:00 – 17:00
- Tuesday: 9:00 – 17:00
- Wednesday: 9:00 – 17:00
- Thursday: 9:00 – 17:00
- Friday: 9:00 – 17:00
- Saturday: 9:00 – 17:00
- Sunday: 9:00 – 17:00
Annual events & festivals
- January 1 onwardHatsumode (First Shrine Visit of the Year)
New Year's visit to Nanmin-san, the Chief Guardian Shrine of Okinawa. The highest attendance in the prefecture.
The highest shrine of the Ryukyu Hachisha and the Chief Guardian Shrine of Okinawa. Familiarly known as 'Nanmin-san,' the shrine stands on a cliff edge. During the New Year's visit, the largest number of worshippers in the prefecture gather to celebrate the new year.
HighlightsSee details on the official site ›- ・Chief Guardian Shrine of Okinawa
- ・Shrine on a cliff edge
- ・Highest New Year's attendance in the prefecture
- May 17Reidaisai (Nanmin Festival)
The most important festival at Naminoue Shrine, featuring lively mikoshi processions and Ryukyuan performing arts.
The annual grand festival, known as the Nanmin Festival, is centered on May 17. It is a quintessential early summer event in Naha, bustling with mikoshi processions and dedicatory performances of Ryukyuan arts.
HighlightsSee details on the official site ›- ・Nanmin Festival
- ・Dedicatory performances of Ryukyuan arts
- ・Early summer festival in Naha
Dates can shift from year to year. Please check the official information before you go.
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