What makes Futenma Shrine unique?

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.

Are there any festivals celebrated at Futenma Shrine?

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.

Are there any accommodations or restaurants near Futenma Shrine?

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.

Is photography allowed at Futenma Shrine?

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.

Okinawa

Futenma Shrine

4.5 (2369)Shinto ShrineTourist AttractionPlace Of WorshipAssociation Or OrganizationPoint Of InterestEstablishment

Last updated May 24, 2026

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

Sunday: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM

Monday: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM

Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM

Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM

Thursday: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM

Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM

Saturday: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM

Phone

+81 98-892-3344

Website

futenmagu.or.jp

Overview

Address

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

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Frequently Asked Questions

Traveler reviews

We came here out of curiosity, wanting to understand more about Okinawa’s unique landscape and the spiritual side of the Ryukyu Kingdom. The cave is formed by limestone and a subtropical climate, which allows the stalactites to grow faster than in other parts of Japan This place was once a utaki, dedicated to the goddess Futenma. We visited in the morning, and there were only two of us and another Japanese visitor in our time slot, so it felt especially quiet A miko guided us through a corridor and down into the cave. Inside, there were natural stalactite formations with a small shrine set among them, Shimenawa ropes and paper shide marked the sacred areas, and the whole space felt sacred and well preserved Highly recommend this place if you’re interested in cultural depth and a sense of inner peace

郭嘉欣

Apr 8, 2026

Historic shrine with mythical beginnings and the famous, mysterious cave shrine. Worth the visit if your a history buff.

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

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.