⛩️ Arakawa Photography Studio Okada Shrine Studio 有川写真館 岡田神社STUDIO

Okada Shrine, located in Kitakyushu City, is an ancient shrine with a history of over 2,600 years. The "Nihon Shoki" records that Emperor Jimmu stopped here during his eastern expedition, and it is also mentioned in the "Kojiki." Locally, it is known by the nickname "Okada-gu," and it serves as a site for the "Kurosaki Gion Yamakasa" festival, as well as being one of the guardian shrines of the Kurosaki area. In Showa 11 (1936), the Arakawa Photography Studio opened in Kurosaki, Yahatanishi Ward, right within the grounds of Okada Shrine. A professional photography studio attached to the shrine's office was opened in 2015, allowing for outdoor photography. It provides services for commemorative photography for visits, Shichi-Go-San, Coming of Age ceremonies, and various other occasions. The studio offers a variety of costumes for rent, including classic kimono, suits, and tailcoats, with over 400 options available ranging from formal to casual attire. Several photography packages include free costume rentals, and visitors can wear rented outfits while visiting the shrine. The meticulous service has garnered much love from customers, resulting in a large number of repeat visitors.

The "Kurosaki Gion Yamakasa," held at Okada Shrine in July, has a history of 400 years and is a representative summer festival of Kitakyushu. The shrine's office has a photography studio, making it easy to take photos and pay respects in one go. There is a wide range of rental costumes available, from kimono to suits, offering plenty of choices.