[Demon Slayer] Mizoguchi Kamado Shrine Fukuoka Prefecture

【Demon Slayer】Mizoguchi Kamado Shrine (Chushoji City, Fukuoka Prefecture) Complete Guide | Pilgrimage Sites, Goshuin Stamps, and Access Information

Mizoguchi Kamado Shrine, located in Chushoji City, Fukuoka Prefecture, is a shrine that attracts many fans from across the country as a sacred site for the popular manga “Demon Slayer.” It has garnered attention from a scene in which Kyojuro Rengoku mispronounces the protagonist Tanjiro Kamado’s name as “Mizoguchi boy,” and the numerous coincidences with the work have become a hot topic. This article provides a thorough explanation of the charm of Mizoguchi Kamado Shrine, which boasts a history of over a thousand years.

About Mizoguchi Kamado Shrine | An Ancient Shrine with a Thousand-Year History

Mizoguchi Kamado Shrine is a historic shrine standing on the banks of the Yabe River in the Mizoguchi district of Chushoji City, Fukuoka Prefecture. It is said to have begun when Masakane Mizoguchi, the lord of Mizoguchi Castle, enshrined it in the Kogo district in 1014 (the third year of Longhe) from the Hoken’gu Kamado Shrine of Dazaifu. Known locally as “Mizoguchi Houman Shrine,” it has been an object of faith for the local people for over 1,000 years.

Enshrined Deity and Benefits

The enshrined deity of Mizoguchi Kamado Shrine is Tamayorihime no Mikoto. Tamayorihime no Mikoto is known as a deity of good relationships, and is said to provide benefits of matchmaking and good fortune in love. Moreover, playing on the name “Kamado” (stove), it has long been revered as a deity protecting the kitchen from fire and disaster.

The main benefits are as follows:

• Matchmaking and Good Love Fortune: Fulfillment of romantic relationships through the virtue of Tamayorihime no Mikoto
• Protection from Fire and Disaster: As a Kamado deity, it protects the kitchen and house from fire
• Household Safety: Watching over the peace and safety of the family
• Warding Off Evil: Its role as a protector against evil directions

Deep Relationship with Mizoguchi Castle

Mizoguchi Kamado Shrine was built as a talisman against evil directions for Mizoguchi Castle. Mizoguchi Castle was built in the Middle Ages, and by positioning the shrine to its northeast (the direction of evil), it served to protect the castle and its territory. This concept of “evil direction” is also an interesting point when discussing the connection with “Demon Slayer.”

Connection with Demon Slayer | Why It Is Called a Sacred Site

Mizoguchi Kamado Shrine has become known as a sacred site for “Demon Slayer” due to its numerous coincidences with the work.

The Scene of “Mizoguchi Boy” Mispronunciation

The most famous is the scene in Volume 7 of the manga and the theatrical film “Demon Slayer: Mugen Train Arc,” where Kyojuro Rengoku mispronounces the protagonist Tanjiro Kamado’s name as “Mizoguchi boy.” When this scene was broadcast and released, Mizoguchi Kamado Shrine suddenly came to the attention of many as the only shrine where “Mizoguchi” and “Kamado” exist simultaneously.

Match with the Protagonist’s Surname “Kamado”

The fact that the protagonist Tanjiro Kamado’s surname “Kamado” (stove) matches the shrine’s name perfectly also became a major topic of conversation among fans. While there are multiple Kamado shrines throughout the country, none other than this shrine in Chushoji City, Fukuoka Prefecture, combines with the place name “Mizoguchi.”

Role as a Protection Against Evil Directions

As mentioned earlier, Mizoguchi Kamado Shrine was built as a talisman against evil directions for Mizoguchi Castle. Considering that “Demon Slayer” is a story about fighting demons, the setting of a shrine that guards against evil is an interesting coincidence.

Other Connections

• Nature as a Fire Deity: Kamado Shrine is a shrine that presides over fire, and some point out a connection with the “Hinokami Kagura” (Fire God Dance) that Tanjiro uses
• Age of History: Over 1,000 years of history is far older than the Taisho period, the time period of the story, and overlaps with the background of the narrative
• Virtue of Tamayorihime no Mikoto: The nature of a deity of matchmaking resonates with the themes of the work—bonds and family love

Notable Spots in the Precincts | 900-Year-Old Husband and Wife Camphor Trees and Torii Gate

There are many noteworthy spots within the precincts of Mizoguchi Kamado Shrine worth visiting.

Husband and Wife Camphor Trees Over 900 Years Old

The most striking feature in the precincts is the husband and wife camphor trees (meoto kusu), said to be over 900 years old. The sight of two massive camphor trees standing side by side is magnificent and attracts visitors as a symbol of the benefits of matchmaking and good love fortune. Their stately appearance tells the story of the shrine’s history, watching over the region through the long passage of time.

The husband and wife camphor trees are also known as a power spot for good love fortune, and visitors can often be seen taking photographs—couples and those seeking good relationships.

Torii Gate and Approach Path

A magnificent torii gate stands at the entrance of the shrine, with a tranquil approach path leading from it. Due to its location on the banks of the Yabe River, it is a place where visitors can worship with a calm heart in a natural, lush environment.

Main Hall and Worship Hall

The main hall and worship hall, which convey a sense of history, have a simple yet solemn appearance. It becomes clear that this is a shrine rooted in daily life, with not only Demon Slayer fans but also local people regularly visiting for worship.

Goshuin Stamp Information | A Must-See for Demon Slayer Fans

Goshuin stamps can be obtained at Mizoguchi Kamado Shrine. Since being spotlighted as a sacred site for Demon Slayer, the number of visitors seeking goshuin stamps has increased.

Characteristics of the Goshuin Stamp

The goshuin stamp at Mizoguchi Kamado Shrine features a simple and dignified design with the shrine’s name and the name of the enshrined deity calligraphed in ink. The goshuin stamp bearing the characters “Mizoguchi Kamado Shrine” is treasured by many fans as a memento of their pilgrimage to the sacred site.

Points to Note When Obtaining a Goshuin Stamp

• Hours of the Sacristy: It is recommended that you check the opening hours before visiting
• Offering: Generally 300 to 500 yen
• Goshuin Stamp Book: Bring your own goshuin stamp book
• Etiquette: A goshuin stamp is not a stamp rally but a certificate of worship. First worship at the shrine, and then obtain your goshuin stamp

Votive Tablets and Offerings | Demon Slayer-Related Merchandise Available

In addition to general votive tablets and offerings, Mizoguchi Kamado Shrine also offers merchandise with Demon Slayer fans in mind.

Votive Tablets

Votive tablets wishing for matchmaking and good love fortune are popular. There are also tablets designed with the husband and wife camphor trees in mind, and visitors write their wishes and present them at the shrine. Many Demon Slayer fans are seen writing messages of love for the work.

Protective Amulets

• Matchmaking Amulet: An amulet to receive the benefits of Tamayorihime no Mikoto
• Fire Protection Amulet: An amulet unique to Kamado Shrine for protection against fire and disaster
• Evil-Warding Amulet: An amulet befitting a shrine with the role of warding off evil

Special Festivals | Sentomyo Festival and Kiseru Festival

Mizoguchi Kamado Shrine is also known for its unique festivals.

Sentomyo Festival (Festival of a Thousand Lanterns)

The Sentomyo Festival is an enchanting festival in which numerous lanterns are lit. The sight of countless lights flickering in the precincts at night invites visitors into a magical world. It is a festival unique to Kamado Shrine, which presides over fire.

Kiseru Festival

It is also known for the “Kiseru Festival,” a rare event nationwide. This festival is a valuable event that passes on local traditional culture to the present day.

These festivals have been continuing long before the shrine came to the attention of the public as a sacred site for Demon Slayer, and tell of the depth of the shrine’s history.

Access Information | How to Get to Chushoji City, Fukuoka Prefecture

Here is a detailed explanation of how to access Mizoguchi Kamado Shrine.

Basic Information

• Address: 1553 Mizoguchi, Oaza, Chushoji City, Fukuoka Prefecture
• Phone Number: Chushoji City Tourism Association (0942-53-4229) for information

Access by Car

Using the Kyushu Expressway:

• Approximately 15 minutes from Yame IC
• Approximately 20 minutes from Miyama Yanagawa IC

Parking: There are parking spaces near the shrine, but the number is limited, so caution is needed during crowded times.

Access by Public Transportation

By Train:

• Approximately 10 minutes by car from “Inuizuka Station” on the JR Kagoshima Main Line
• Approximately 15 minutes by car from “Chushoji Funakoushi Station” on the Nishi-Nippon Railway Tenjin Omuta Line

By Bus/Taxi:
It is convenient to use a taxi from the station. Since the number of buses is limited, it is recommended that you check the schedule in advance.

Nearby Tourist Spots

When visiting Mizoguchi Kamado Shrine, it is recommended that you also visit other tourist spots in Chushoji City and the surrounding areas.

• Yame City: Famous for Yame tea in the adjacent city. Traditional townscapes remain
• Yanagawa City: Known as a water town where you can enjoy river cruises
• Chushoji Funakoushi Hot Spring: Relax at a hot spring
• Koiki Shrine (Chushoji City): Another Demon Slayer-related spot that has come to the attention of many

Worship Etiquette and Precautions

When visiting Mizoguchi Kamado Shrine, please observe the following etiquette.

Basic Worship Etiquette

1. Bow Once Before Passing Through the Torii Gate: This is a gesture of respect when entering sacred ground
2. Avoid Walking Down the Center of the Path: The center is considered the path of the deities
3. Purify Yourself at the Water Basin: Rinse in the following order: left hand → right hand → mouth → left hand
4. Two Bows, Two Claps, One Bow: The standard worship ritual at most shrines

Precautions for Pilgrimage Visits

• Remain Quiet: Shrines are sacred places. Do not shout loudly or run around
• Photography: Do not take photographs in areas where photography is prohibited, such as the interior of the main hall
• Take Trash With You: Please cooperate in keeping the precincts clean
• Consider Local Residents: Some areas are near residential homes. Do not forget to be considerate of neighbors by avoiding noise
• Parking Etiquette: Never park on roads or on private property without permission

Efforts of the Chushoji City Tourism Association

In response to the popularity of Mizoguchi Kamado Shrine, the Chushoji City Tourism Association has undertaken various information-sharing activities.

Using Official Information

The official website and social media (Twitter, etc.) of the Chushoji City Tourism Association disseminate the latest information about Mizoguchi Kamado Shrine. By checking before your visit, you can confirm the dates of festivals and other temporary notices.

Chushoji Funakoushi Tourism Information Center

Near Chushoji Funakoushi Station, there is a tourism information center where you can obtain information about how to access Mizoguchi Kamado Shrine and tourist information about the surrounding area. Maps and brochures are also available, and it is recommended that first-time visitors stop by.

Recommended Way to Spend Time for Demon Slayer Fans

Here are some recommended ways to spend time at Mizoguchi Kamado Shrine for Demon Slayer fans.

Pilgrimage Plan

Morning:

• Arrive at Chushoji Funakoushi Station or Inuizuka Station
• Gather information at the Chushoji Funakoushi Tourism Information Center
• Head to Mizoguchi Kamado Shrine

Midday:

• Worship at Mizoguchi Kamado Shrine
• Photograph the husband and wife camphor trees and torii gate in the precincts
• Obtain a goshuin stamp
• Write wishes on votive tablets and present them

Afternoon:

• Tour Chushoji City or the surrounding Yame and Yanagawa cities
• Enjoy local cuisine
• Visit other related spots such as Koiki Shrine

Photography Spots

• Torii Gate and Shrine Name Plate: A standard memorial photo spot with the characters “Mizoguchi Kamado Shrine”
• Husband and Wife Camphor Trees: Capture the magnificent appearance of the 900-year-old trees
• Main Hall: Architectural beauty that conveys history
• Full View of the Precincts: The natural, lush environment on the banks of the Yabe River

Preparing Your Goshuin Stamp Book

If you plan to visit multiple Demon Slayer-related shrines, it is also recommended that you prepare a dedicated goshuin stamp book. Collecting goshuin stamps from other related shrines, such as the Kamado Shrine at Dazaifu, will create a special memory.

The Four Seasons at Mizoguchi Kamado Shrine

Mizoguchi Kamado Shrine reveals a different face with each season.

Spring (March to May)

Fresh greenery is beautiful during this season. The young leaves of the husband and wife camphor trees sprout, and the precincts are enveloped in an atmosphere full of vitality. The climate is also mild, making it an ideal time to visit for worship.

Summer (June to August)

The precincts, covered in deep green, offer cool shade even on hot days. This is also the season when the Sentomyo Festival is held, and visitors can enjoy the enchanting nighttime scenery of summer.

Autumn (September to November)

During the autumn foliage season, the trees in the precincts begin to change color. The pleasant climate makes it a time when visitors can enjoy worship at a leisurely pace.

Winter (December to February)

In the clear winter air, the tranquil atmosphere becomes even deeper. There are relatively few visitors, making it a season when one can worship with a calm mind.

Coexistence with the Community | Balancing Tourism and Tradition

While Mizoguchi Kamado Shrine attracts attention as a sacred site for Demon Slayer, it is also a place of faith rooted in the local community for over a thousand years.

A Shrine for Local People

Even as the number of tourists increases, Mizoguchi Kamado Shrine remains an important shrine that local people visit regularly for worship. It continues to be visited at important milestones in people’s lives—such as the New Year visit, celebrations of children, and purification from misfortune—and continues to be an object of faith for the community without change.

A Request for Visitors

We would like visitors who come on a pilgrimage for Demon Slayer to understand that this shrine is both a tourist attraction and a place of faith for the local people. By respecting etiquette and being considerate of coexistence with the community, the charm of Mizoguchi Kamado Shrine will be preserved for the future.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Is Mizoguchi Kamado Shrine really a model for Demon Slayer?

A1: The author Gotouge Koyoharu has not officially stated that it is a “model,” but due to the mispronunciation scene of “Mizoguchi boy” in the work and the fact that it is the only shrine combining “Mizoguchi” and “Kamado,” it is recognized as a sacred site among fans. The numerous coincidences with the work are the reason many fans are drawn to it.

Q2: Can I obtain a goshuin stamp every day?

A2: You can obtain a goshuin stamp during the opening hours of the sacristy, but there are times when it is unattended. If you want to obtain a goshuin stamp for sure, it is recommended that you check the opening hours in advance by contacting the Chushoji City Tourism Association.

Q3: Is there a parking lot?

A3: There are parking spaces near the shrine, but the number is limited. There may be crowding on holidays and festival days, so public transportation is also an option. Also, be sure to avoid parking on roads or in ways that would inconvenience nearby residents.

Q4: How long does worship take?

A4: Worship itself takes about 15 to 30 minutes, but if you take time to stroll slowly through the precincts, take photographs, or obtain a goshuin stamp, allow about an hour. If you include sightseeing in the surrounding area, a half-day schedule is recommended.

Q5: Are there other Demon Slayer-related locations nearby?

A5: There is Koiki Shrine in Chushoji City, which is also noted for its connection to Demon Slayer. Additionally, Kamado Shrine (Hoken’gu) in Dazaifu City is a famous sacred site. It is also possible to plan a pilgrimage route visiting multiple spots within Fukuoka Prefecture.

Summary: The Charm of Mizoguchi Kamado Shrine

Mizoguchi Kamado Shrine in Chushoji City, Fukuoka Prefecture, is an ancient shrine with over 1,000 years of history that has come to nationwide attention as a sacred site for Demon Slayer. The pilgrimage boom that began with the scene in which Kyojuro Rengoku mispronounces Tanjiro as “Mizoguchi boy” has introduced many people to the original charms of this shrine—the benefits of matchmaking brought by Tamayorihime no Mikoto, faith in protection from fire and disaster, the magnificent 900-year-old husband and wife camphor trees, and traditions rooted in the community.

Whether you are a Demon Slayer fan or not, a visit to Mizoguchi Kamado Shrine will allow you to experience the tranquil atmosphere of the precincts and the special air created by its long history. This shrine, standing on the banks of the Yabe River, will continue to welcome many worshippers in the modern era, healing hearts, bringing good fortune in love, and protecting from misfortune.

When you visit Chushoji City, be sure to stop by Mizoguchi Kamado Shrine. There awaits a special experience where love for the work and respect for history intersect.