Awashima Shinto Shrine
The shrine was constructed in 1812 during the reign of Nabeshima Shigeyasu, the 10th Lord of Kojiro Nabeshima. When it was first built the original kanji characters used for ‘Awashima’ meant ‘millet island.’ Although the shrine name retains the same pronunciation ‘Awashima,’ the kanji has now changed to mean ‘faint’ or ‘pale’ island.
The current shrine building was rebuilt in March 1992. Like other Awashima shrines around the country, it is believed to be beneficial for ‘matchmaking’ and ‘easy childbirth,’ and is particularly revered as a guardian deity for women.
It is also known for its cherry blossoms, and usually attracts large crowds in April, when a flower festival is held and performances are dedicated. On the occasion of the festival’s anniversary, folk performing arts such as ‘Furyu’ and ‘Gishi Odori‘ are also performed.