In the quiet interplay between shadow and light, the moon has always held a mystical governance over the tides, the harvest, and the human psyche. In the town of Tanushimaru, Kurume, this celestial body is revered not just as a satellite, but as a deity of clarity.
From January 23rd to 25th, 2026, the Tsukiyomi Shrine hosts its Grand Festival, affectionately known by locals as “Sanya-sama” (The Honorable Three Nights). Dedicated to Tsukiyomi-no-Mikoto, the Shinto god of the moon, this festival is a spiritual pilgrimage for those seeking to heal their physical vision and awaken their metaphorical foresight. In a modern world clouded by uncertainty and digital strain, Sanya-sama offers a rare, ancient prescription for clarity.
Unveiling the Essence: The God Who Reads the Moon
The festival’s name, “Sanya-sama,” is a nod to its three-day duration, a triad of nights where the spiritual veil is thinnest. The enshrined deity, Tsukiyomi, is the brother of the Sun Goddess Amaterasu. While the sun illuminates the obvious, the moon governs the subtle rhythms of life.
Historically, this shrine has been worshipped as a sanctuary for eye health. However, the “vision” granted here transcends the physical. It is believed that just as one reads the phases of the moon to predict the tides, worshipping here grants “Senken-no-mei”—the gift of foresight. It is a place where entrepreneurs, leaders, and those at a crossroads come to pray for the ability to see the path ahead.
Your Insider Odyssey: A Trinity of Blessings
1. The Opening of the Eye (Physical & Metaphysical)
The primary draw of Sanya-sama is its reputation as a “God of the Eyes.” Visitors often flock here to pray for the recovery from eye diseases or to protect their vision.
- The Modern Relevance: In our screen-saturated era, a prayer for eye health is perhaps the most practical spiritual wellness check one can make.
- The Inner Eye: Beyond optics, the blessing of “Opening Luck” (Kaiun) is sought by those wishing to cultivate intuition—the ability to “read” the atmosphere and the future, much like reading the moon.
2. The Lunar cycle protection
Because the deity is the “Moon Reader,” the blessings extend to all things governed by lunar cycles:
- Safe Childbirth: Aligned with the monthly cycles of life.
- Maritime Safety: For those who navigate the tides.
- Agricultural Abundance: For farmers who plant by the lunar calendar.
3. The Tanushimaru Atmosphere
The festival takes place in Tanushimaru, a district famous for its fruit orchards and legends of the Kappa (mythical river sprites). The walk from the station to the shrine allows you to breathe in the crisp January air of a town that still moves to the rhythm of the seasons.
Elite Navigator’s Codex: Strategic Logistics
To experience Sanya-sama with the reverence it commands, follow these logistical coordinates.
- The Access Algorithm: The shrine is remarkably accessible. It is a mere 7-minute walk from JR Tanushimaru Station (Kyudai Line). If you are exploring the wider Kurume area by bus, the “Tanushimaru Chuo” stop places you just 2 minutes away.
- The Three-Day Window: The festival runs strictly from January 23 to 25. Unlike festivals that shift with the weekend, these dates are fixed. Plan your itinerary to align with this window.
- The “Insight” Souvenir: While at the shrine, look for omamori (amulets) specifically dedicated to eye health or foresight. These make for deeply meaningful gifts for students, creatives, or anyone facing a challenging decision.
Kyushu Codex: Instant Insights
| Feature | Details | Expert Reference Tip |
| Festival Name | Sanya-sama (Tsukiyomi Shrine Grand Festival) | “Sanya” refers to the 3 nights (Jan 23-25). |
| Dates | Jan 23 – 25, 2026 | Starts from 9:00 AM each day. |
| Deity | Tsukiyomi-no-Mikoto | The Moon God. Brother to the Sun Goddess. |
| Core Benefit | Eye Health & Foresight | Also good for childbirth and fishing. |
| Location | Tsukiyomi Shrine, Kurume | A quiet, spiritual enclave in Tanushimaru. |
| Access | JR Tanushimaru Station | A flat, easy 7-min walk. |
FAQ Nexus: Essential Knowledge
Q: Why is the festival called “Sanya-sama”?
“Sanya” translates to “Three Nights.” It refers to the festival spanning three specific days (and nights) in January—the 23rd, 24th, and 25th.
Q: Is this festival only for people with eye problems?
No. While it is famous for eye health, it is equally renowned for “Kaiun” (opening luck) and “foresight.” It is popular among business owners and people starting new ventures who need to “see the future clearly.”
Q: What is the significance of “Moon Reading”?
“Tsuki-yomi” literally means “Moon Reading.” Ancient Japanese culture relied on reading the moon’s phases for agriculture, tides, and timekeeping. Thus, the deity is the master of time, rhythm, and prediction.
Q: Is the shrine difficult to find?
No. It is located in the central part of Tanushimaru, very close to the main train station. The town is navigable and pedestrian-friendly.
Q: Can I buy food at the festival?
Typically, local festivals in Japan feature Yatai (food stalls) selling festival favorites like yakisoba or takoyaki, though the scale is more intimate compared to massive city festivals.
Coda
Sanya-sama is a reminder that in our rush to move forward, we often forget to look clearly. Whether you seek to soothe tired eyes or to find direction in a clouded future, the Moon God of Kurume waits to lend you his vision. It is a festival of quiet power, illuminating the dark winter nights with the promise of clarity.