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Kameido Tenjin Shrine

3-6-1 Kameido, Koto-ku, TokyoView on map

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Kameido Tenjin Shrine is in Koto Ward, Tokyo, and enshrines Sugawara no Michizane, the deity of learning, as its main deity. As the head shrine among the Tenmangu of the Kanto region, it is also called 'Higashi Dazaifu Tenmangu.' Many exam candidates and students visit to pray for academic success and passing exams, and many ema are dedicated each year.

Shrine Info

Enshrined Deity
Tenman Okami (Sugawara no Michizane-ko); Ame no Hohi no Mikoto
Founded
Kanbun 1 (1661)
Annual Festival
Fuji Matsuri (Wisteria Festival) (April-May); Reitaisai (August)

History & Origins

It was founded in 1661 (the 1st year of Kanbun) by transferring the divided spirit from Dazaifu Tenmangu in Kyushu. In the Edo period it developed under the protection of the Tokugawa shogunate and was cherished as an important shrine of eastern Edo. The wisteria in the grounds has been famous since the Edo period as 'Kameido no Fuji,' and is depicted in illustrated guides of famous places.

Highlights

The wisteria trellises spreading across the grounds are Tokyo's representative flower spot, known as 'Kameido no Fuji.' From late April to early May, when the wisteria blooms in full, many visitors come. The grounds, with their arched drum bridge and Shinji pond, are laid out in imitation of Dazaifu Tenmangu in Kyushu.

Visitor Guide

It is accessible on foot in 15 minutes from Kameido Station on the JR Sobu Line, or in 5 minutes from Kameido-Suijin Station on the Tobu Kameido Line. The exam season of January and February is crowded, so allow plenty of time for your visit.

Best Season

The Wisteria Festival from late April to early May is especially spectacular. The plum festival in February is also beautiful, and you can worship the deity of learning together with the plum blossoms.

Annual Events

  • February

    Ume Matsuri (Plum Blossom Festival)

    Held from mid-February to mid-March. The plum trees on the grounds are in full bloom, and prayers are offered in connection with the god of learning.

  • April to May

    Fuji Matsuri (Wisteria Festival)

    Held from April 25 to May 5. The wisteria trellises of the grounds, famous as the "Wisteria of Kameido," are at their best.

  • August

    Reitaisai (Grand Annual Festival)

    The largest festival of the year, held on a day close to August 25. A portable shrine procession and dedicatory events are held.