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Futenma Shrine

4.4 (200)Tourist AttractionPlace Of WorshipPoint Of InterestEstablishment

Futenma Shrine, situated in the heart of Ginowan City, Okinawa, is a venerable site steeped in local tradition and spiritual significance. This shrine is a pivotal cultural landmark for the community and a testament to the island’s rich Shinto heritage. Futenma Shrine stands out for its deep historical roots, with origins that trace back several centuries, making it a storied element of Okinawa's religious landscape.

Enclosed by a lush forest, the shrine's grounds provide a serene environment that contrasts with the urban surroundings. The architecture is particularly noteworthy, featuring the distinctive red tiles and ornate woodwork typical of Okinawan shrine design, which reflects the unique blend of mainland Japanese and indigenous Ryukyuan styles. This mix of influences highlights the cultural syncretism that characterizes much of Okinawa's history.

Futenma Shrine is renowned for its sacred cave, believed to be home to a kami (a Shinto deity), which adds an element of mystique and draws both devotees and curious visitors. People often visit to offer prayers for well-being and success, participating in age-old rituals that have been preserved through generations.

Hours:

9:30 AM to 6:00 PM

Closed:

No closing days

Available:

All year

Minimum Age:

All ages are welcome

Fees:

Free


Hours
Monday: 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM
Tuesday: 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM
Wednesday: 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM
Thursday: 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM
Friday: 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM
Saturday: 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM
Sunday: 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM
Phone
+81 98-892-3344
Website
futenmagu.or.jp

The area

Address
1-chōme-27-10 Futenma, Ginowan, Okinawa 901-2202, Japan

What other travelers are saying about Futenma Shrine

This is one of the most beautiful shrines in Okinawa and I highly recommend exploring it. Here besides praying you can also visit a small cave with another altar that is meant for the two Kami (Gods) that reside in the grounds. You only need to tell the nuns at the counter and they will add you to a list and show you the cave for free. It does not have lots of room to explore, but the altar is impressive and so are the stalactites and stalagmites in the cave. No pictures are allowed in the cave. Free parking available
Futenma shrine, a popular shrine in Futenma area of the Okinawa, with lots of visitors in weekend. It was believed to be built around in 1440 to 1450, in the Ryukyu kingdom period. It is possible that it is one of the oldest Shinto Shrines in Okinawa, and visitors may see its history from its old wooden building structure. Most visitors and worshippers would worship at above-ground Shinto shrine, but it also has underground cave which also has worship shrine/hall. Visitors can make on-site applications for entering the under-ground worship shrine, and Shrine's clergy would lead visitors or worshippers to underground cave every 20 minutes. It appears that, in winter season, the under-ground visit is generally limited to the morning hours. The Shrine does hold new year celebration and other religious festivals which are also helpful for the Shrine's financing, in addition to funding from having baby photos and other kid growing celebration to be held in Shrine. Although shrine has two parking spots, they are often fully occupied in holiday and in weekend.
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Ben Hsu
Dec 24, 2023
A beautiful experience, wonderful to see such preserved history. Many worship ceremonies took place as we walked around. Do the cave tour, you will not be disappointed!
I went here on a weekday, but there were fair number of worshippers. You need to apply to visit the caves. Every few minutes, the staff takes you there. There is no charge for this service. Photography inside the cave is not permitted . There is a large parking space at the back. You can drive from the side of the Torii.
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Winston Takahashi
Oct 17, 2023
Aug2024 visit: sad to see their year of the dragon painting wasn't up. Still a beautiful shrine to visit. Lovely shrine to bring in the new year make a wish. Parking is available. Has a bathroom.
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Yuuki AsunaYui
Aug 9, 2024


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