Top Things to do in Kanzaki
What to do and see in Kanzaki, Kyushu: The Best Sacred & Religious Sites
Discover the best top things to do in Kanzaki, Japan including Niiyama Shrine, Wani Shrine, Jotokuji Temple, Kushida-gu, Oshitori Shrine.
Restaurants in Kanzaki
1. Niiyama Shrine
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 30 reviews
Reviewed By hfot2 - Vermont, United States
After exiting from Kunanen Garden and villa, head up the hill to the shrine. Be sure to go to Kunanen villa before going to the shrine in order to try to beat some of the crowds there. The path up to the shrine from the garden and villa passes an immense ancient tree. There is a torii at the entrance to the shrine complex, in addition to the one at the base of the hill. There was some nice foliage color here but nothing earth shattering. Once in the shrine complex you can wander around on that level photographing lanterns and such or stop at one of the food stalls there. Take the steep stairs up to the shrine itself or use the ramp which makes it an easier walk. Be sure to make your way around to the back of the shrine, where you will find a sacred spring attended by statues of monkey. The god of mountains and god of agriculture are enshrined here. There were several small shrines similar to those found at Inari shrines, but here at Niiyama there were tiny statues of monkeys and other animals placed around the auxiliary small shrines. When we left we walked down the broad staircase to see something different. We found more foliage and a bit more color near the stairs. This shrine combined with Kunanen Garden makes for a nice day trip from Hakata.
