[Okinawa] A shrine built on a huge coral reef on the shore where the waves beat

Naminoue Shrine was a holy place where people prayed in the past. Ships entering and leaving Naha Port, which is a base for trade with various countries, would look at the Naminoue Shrine and its shrine enshrined on the high cliff to pray for safe sailing and express gratitude. People prayed for a good harvest, and every New Year's Day the king would lead celebrities from all over the country to pay homage and pray for peace for the country. Naminoue Shrine ranks first among the Eight Shrines of Ryukyu and is revered as the "number one shrine in the country." It was listed as an official shrine during the Meiji period and was the greatest shrine protecting Okinawa, but it was burned down during the war. After the war, the main hall and the social office were rebuilt in 1949, and the front hall was rebuilt in 1957. In 1915, the Heisei Gozoeki completed the construction of the palace except for the main hall. In 1998, it was designated as a historical and cultural heritage of Naha City. In the past, various gods gathered at Namijo Shrine, and the belief in blessing the country, marriage, pregnancy, travel safety, prosperity of offspring, and longevity was devoutly believed. In recent years, the god who fulfills various wishes, such as those related to construction, business prosperity, newborn worship, warding off disasters, and traffic safety, has also been highly revered, and Naminouegu Shrine is believed to be the guardian deity of Okinawa. 🌸Main features 🔸️Sea shrine view Namiuegu Shrine is built on a cliff, facing the sea, with magnificent views. Looking toward the coast from the shrine’s torii gate, you can see Okinawa’s unique blue seascape, which is perfect for taking photos and checking in. 🔸️God fortune sticks and amulets The shrine offers a variety of special amulets, such as "traffic safety amulets", "good luck amulets", "health amulets", etc., as well as amulets with the unique "Shisa dog" design of Okinawa, which are very local. 🔸️New Year’s visit From January 1st to 3rd every year, Naminoue Shrine attracts a large number of Okinawa residents to visit and pray for a safe and smooth new year. 🌸Traditional Festival 🔸️Reitaisai (May 17): The most important festival of the year at the shrine, with traditional mikoshi parades and ceremonies. 🔸️Naminoue Festival (mid-July): Combined with the nearby Naminoue Beach activities, pray for safety at sea. 🌸Photography and check-in spots 🔸️Torii and stone steps: Climbing up the stone steps, the torii and shrine buildings form the unique style of Okinawa. 🔸️The main hall of the shrine and the sea view: Standing in the viewing area next to the main hall, you can overlook the coastline of Naha and take pictures of Okinawa's unique shrine sea view. 🔸️Naminoue Beach: Below the shrine is the only beach in downtown Okinawa, where you can take photos of the beach scenery. 🌸Tips 🔸️Transportation: Monorail (Okinawa City Monorail): Get off at "Asahibashi Station" and walk for about 15 minutes. 🔸️Bus: Get off at "Seibumen" stop and walk about 5 minutes. 🔸️Self-driving: There is free parking next to the shrine, but the space is limited, so it is recommended to go there early. 🔺️Best time to visit: early morning or dusk, when there are fewer people and the light is suitable for taking photos. 🔺️Attractions to visit: Nanoue Beach (you can enjoy a walk on the beach or take photos by the sea) Kokusai-dori (the busiest shopping street in Okinawa, about 10 minutes away by car) Nanoue Shrine is a must-see attraction when traveling to Okinawa, especially for travelers who like shrine culture or sea views, you must come here to worship and enjoy the beautiful scenery! #FebruaryGoodDestinations2025#Naminouegu #okinawatrip