In the center of Karatsu city stands an impressive white torii gate, marking the entrance to Karatsu Shrine. The shrine is said to have been built at some point within the Nara period, between the years 710-794 A.D. and is dedicated to Sumiyoshi Sanshin and Kouda Muneshigu. Karatsu Shrine is the starting and ending place for the Karatsu float festival, Karatsu Kunchi, which goes from November 2nd to the 4th.