Mamori Ema (wooden votive plaques) that change with the changing seasons
Kego Shrine, located in the heart of Tenjin, Fukuoka City, has a history of over 400 years since it was moved to its current location in 1608. It was built when the founder of the domain, Kuroda Nagamasa, built Fukuoka Castle, and has been loved as a shrine watching over the castle town.
The enshrined deities are "Yasomagatsuhi no Kami," "Kannaobi no Kami," and "Oonaobi no Kami." These deities have the power to ward off illness and disaster, correct mistakes, and guide people to the right path.
Due to a connection that dates back to the construction of Fukuoka Castle, Kego Shrine had long used the Kuroda clan's samurai crest, the "hanging wisteria," as its shrine crest. However, in 2016, the shrine returned to its original origins and created a new crest based on the shrine's motto, "A god who guards and protects."
The new shrine crest is based on the character "固" (solid), and is a symbol of protection and guidance. The ema plaques feature this new shrine crest, which changes color with the changing seasons: spring, summer, autumn, and winter.
