Shrines · Saga
Hoto Shrine: The "Lottery Shrine" on a Little Cat Island
In Japan, some people travel a long way to pray for one thing: winning the lottery. One of the most famous places for this is Hoto Shrine, on a small island called Takashima in Saga Prefecture. I visited in summer.
A shrine for lottery luck
Hoto Shrine is said to bring luck for winning the lottery. The name "Hoto" is written with characters that mean "treasure" and "hit," so it sounds like hitting the jackpot. Over the years, stories of visitors who won big spread across Japan, and now many people come here to pray for luck.
Getting there: a short boat ride
Takashima is an island, so you go by boat. The boat leaves from Hoto Pier, near Karatsu Castle, and the ride is only about 10 minutes. From the island's port, the shrine is just a few minutes on foot.
Boats don't run very often, so check the timetable before you go.
My tip: go to the pier by car. I drove to the pier, and I really think a car is the best way to get there. There is a public parking lot in front of Karatsu Castle, near the pier.
An island where cats live with people
Takashima is known as a "cat island." Cats live here together with the people of the island.
My favorite moment: iced coffee at an island café
It was a hot summer day, and on the island I found a stylish little café. The iced coffee I had there was the best. If you visit in summer, it's a great way to cool down after your shrine visit.
Quick facts
I checked these in October 2026 using travel guides. Boat times and fares can change, so please check before you go.
| Where | Takashima Island, Karatsu City, Saga Prefecture |
|---|---|
| Known for | Praying for lottery luck |
| Boat | From Hoto Pier (near Karatsu Castle), about 10 minutes; about ¥220 one way |
| Boat times | Not frequent; check the timetable |
| From the port | A few minutes' walk to the shrine |
| By car | Public parking in front of Karatsu Castle, near the pier |
| From Karatsu Station | About 10 minutes' walk to Hoto Pier |
| Entry | Free |
FAQ
Will I really win the lottery?
No one can promise that! It's a fun local belief. Many people visit for good luck, and that's part of the charm.
How should I get to the pier?
I recommend a car. I drove to the pier, and I think it's the best way. If you don't have a car, the pier is about a 10-minute walk from JR Karatsu Station.
Are the cats friendly?
The cats live with the people on the island. Please be gentle, don't chase them, and don't feed them unless locals say it's OK.
Summary
A short boat ride, a shrine for lottery luck, cats walking around, and a cold iced coffee on a hot day. That's Hoto Shrine on Takashima in Saga. Drive to the pier, check the boat times, and enjoy the island at a slow pace.
More shrines I've visited: Usa Jingu (Oita) and Ise Jingu (Mie).