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Kitano Tenmangu stands in Kamigyo Ward, Kyoto, and enshrines Sugawara no Michizane, the god of learning, as its main deity. It is the head shrine of about 12,000 Tenmangu and Tenjin shrines across Japan. Since its founding in 947, it has been a sacred site for academic success and exam prayers, visited by many worshippers, especially students preparing for exams. The Plum Festival in February is known as a seasonal feature of Kyoto's spring.
Shrine Info
- Enshrined Deity
- Sugawara no Michizane-ko
- Founded
- Tenryaku 1 (947)
- Annual Festival
- Baika-sai (February); Zuiki Matsuri (October)
History & Origins
It was founded in 947 (the 1st year of Tenryaku) to pacify the spirit of Sugawara no Michizane, who died in Dazaifu in 903 (the 3rd year of Engi). The succession of natural disasters after Michizane's death was attributed to 'Michizane's curse', and enshrining his spirit as Tenjin is the origin of Tenjin worship. It is also a famous historic site where Toyotomi Hideyoshi held the Kitano Grand Tea Gathering (1587).
Highlights
About 2,000 plum trees of around 50 varieties are planted in the grounds, and they bloom magnificently from early February to mid-March. The main hall, worship hall and two-story gate are designated National Treasures. The 'Nade-ushi' (stroking ox) is believed to bring blessings for academic success, and worshippers stroking its head never cease. On the 25th of each month, the festival day 'Tenjin-ichi' brings out stalls of street vendors.
Visitor Guide
It is a short walk from the Kitano Tenmangu-mae bus stop on the City Bus, or about a 5-minute walk from Kitano-Hakubaicho Station on the Keifuku Electric Railway (Randen). The grounds are free to enter (the treasure hall, plum garden and others charge separate fees). Goshuin are available from 9:00 to 17:00.
Best Season
The Baika-sai (plum blossom festival) period from early February to mid-March, when the plums bloom, is the most popular. The monthly festival 'Tenjin-ichi' on the 25th can be enjoyed all year round.
Annual Events
- February
Baikasai (Plum Blossom Festival)
A festival centered on February 25 (the anniversary of Michizane's death). An outdoor tea ceremony by maiko and geiko of Kamishichiken is also held.
- October
Zuikisai (Zuiki Festival)
A festival held on October 1–5. A procession of the Zuiki portable shrine, decorated with vegetables and rice ears, is held.
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