Atago Shrine, Fukuoka-Shi

The Atago shrine--and there are three in Japan--is dedicated to the patron god of matchmaking, hope and intimacy. As you can imagine, couples frequent the grounds, some on official business with the shrine's priests; those with marriage plans may seek blessings. Others however, go because of its location. Not only are relationships blessed here, but they are also sometimes started, as the views provided from its perch on a steep hill in the west side of the city are magnificent and quite romantic at night. There are coin-operated telescopes around the perimeter.