Kushida Shrine, affectionately known as 'Okushida-san', is Hakata's central guardian shrine and one of its most iconic landmarks. Believed to have been founded in 757, it serves as the sacred starting point for the famous Hakata Gion Yamakasa festival each July. A 1,000-year-old ginkgo tree stands guard at the entrance as a designated cultural property. A decorative festival float 'kazariyamakasa' is displayed on the shrine grounds nearly year-round, except in June when it's being prepared.