Saka Shrine

Overview

Saka Shrine is located in Saga City, Saga Prefecture. Its former official rank was Bekkaku Kanpeisha (Special Government Shrine). It's one of the shrines built during the late Edo and early Meiji periods to enshrine the founders of domains. It enshrines Naomasa Nabeshima, the 10th lord of the Saga Domain, and Naohiro Nabeshima, the 11th lord. Naomasa implemented domain reforms and fostered talents such as Shigenobu Okuma and Shinpei Eto. Naohiro fought for the Imperial army in the Boshin War and submitted a proposal for the Hanseki Hokkan (return of domains to the emperor) in 1869. In 1873 (Meiji 6), after Naomasa's death, a south hall was built at Matsubara Shrine, which enshrined the Nabeshima ancestors, to enshrine Naomasa's spirit in honor of his virtues. In 1929 (Showa 4), the construction of Saka Shrine, a Bekkaku Kanpeisha dedicated to Naomasa, was decided. In 1933 (Showa 8), the shrine building was constructed at its current location, and Naomasa's spirit was moved from Matsubara Shrine. In 1948 (Showa 23), Naohiro's spirit, previously enshrined in the south hall of Matsubara Shrine, was enshrined together with Naomasa at Saka Shrine. Matsubara Shrine was operated separately, but its management was unified with Saka Shrine in 1961 (Showa 36). Saka Shrine is an important site that conveys the history and culture of the Saga Domain, attracting many tourists. Within the grounds, there are stone monuments commemorating Naomasa's achievements and displays of items such as a sword used by Naohiro. Also, Saka Shrine houses the mausoleum of Jumako Nabeshima, Naomasa's mother. Besides Saka Shrine, there are seven other shrines within its precincts. It is said that making a pilgrimage to all eight shrines ('Hassha-mairi') will grant your wishes.