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
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.
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.
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!
Jan2025: I had to park on side of the road and walk up. The line to get in was long.
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.
Futenma Shrine is renowned for its serene and spiritual environment. It is particularly famous for its cave, which is said to house a sacred spring. The shrine is also a center for various traditional ceremonies and festivals, reflecting Okinawa's unique cultural heritage.
Futenma Shrine hosts several festivals throughout the year, including the annual spring and autumn festivals, which feature traditional performances, rituals, and local food. These festivals are lively, colorful, and offer a deep insight into Okinawan culture.
While there are no accommodations or dining facilities on the shrine grounds, the surrounding area of Ginowan offers various hotels and restaurants. Visitors can easily find places to stay or eat near the shrine, catering to a range of tastes and budgets.
Photography is generally allowed in the outdoor areas of the shrine, but it may be restricted within certain sacred areas or during specific rituals. Always look for signs indicating restrictions or ask a shrine official if unsure.
