Hakozaki Shrine, located in Higashi-ku, Fukuoka City, Fukuoka Prefecture, is one of the three major Hachiman Shrines in Japan, along with Usa Shrine (Oita Prefecture) and Iwashimizu Hachiman Shrine (Kyoto Prefecture). It has long been revered as a god of protection from evil and good fortune, and is especially popular among people who wish for victory at the most crucial moments. The grounds are enveloped in a quiet and solemn atmosphere, and many worshippers come to pray for success in sports matches, exams, business negotiations, and more.

The greatest attractions of this shrine are its historical buildings and sacred space. The tower gate, designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan, is said to be where Emperor Kameyama held up a calligraphy piece reading "surrender of the enemy country" during the Mongol invasion, symbolizing the belief in protection from evil and good fortune. The main hall and worship hall also have a dignified atmosphere, making worshippers feel pure. The grounds include a sacred tree said to be hundreds of years old and a garden with flowers blooming throughout the seasons, making for a peaceful stroll.

The Tamatori Festival, commonly known as Tamaseseri, has been held on a grand scale since ancient times. Auctioneers dressed in traditional Japanese robes compete fiercely for a wooden ball that is said to ward off misfortune and bring good fortune to anyone who touches it.

[Hidden gems]
The area around the tower gate and main hall is crowded with worshippers, but the East Sub-shrine and West Sub-shrine at the back of the grounds are relatively quiet and are hidden gems where you can worship at your own pace. There is also a power stone called Wakideishi in the grounds, which is said to bring good fortune when touched, and is visited by many people.