Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine

Sugawara no Michizane, the enshrined deity of Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine, is known as a scholar and politician of the Heian period. He rose to a high position with his outstanding knowledge and political skills, serving as a doctor of literature and minister of the left. However, due to his conflict with the ruling power of the time, he was exiled to Dazaifu in Kyushu. After his death there, various legends were passed down about him. One of the most famous is the story that Michizane had a deep love for plum blossoms. When he left the capital, he composed a farewell poem to his beloved plum tree, and his admiration for plum blossoms was known to the people of Dazaifu. After his death, there is a legend that the plum tree he loved flew from the capital to Dazaifu, known as the "flying plum tree legend". In honor of this legend, many plum trees are planted at Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine, and the plum blossoms in spring are particularly beautiful. Michizane is also widely revered as the god of learning. He devoted himself to learning during his lifetime and raised many disciples. Therefore, his spirit came to be revered as the god of learning by the people. At Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine, students and those aspiring to academic achievement visit to pray for success in exams and academic achievement. Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine is not only a place where you can touch the history and legends of Michizane, but also a place where you can experience beautiful nature and culture. Please come and experience its charm for yourself!

The main shrine of Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine is located at the center of the shrine and enshrines Sugawara no Michizane, the deity of the shrine. The main shrine is built in the unique architectural style of "Hachiman-zukuri," which is typical of the Kyushu region, and its beautiful appearance fascinates visitors. Hachiman-zukuri usually consists of a main hall with a flat entrance and a worship hall with a raised floor, and its characteristic is that the main hall and the worship hall are integrated. In addition, the roof has a unique shape with a double gable roof. The construction of the main shrine dates back to the Heian period, but it has been destroyed by fire many times and rebuilt each time. The current main shrine was donated by Toyotomi Hideyoshi in 1591 and is designated as an important cultural property of the country. The stone walls around the main shrine are also designated as a national historic site. In front of the main shrine, there is a worship hall where visitors can offer prayers. Behind the main shrine, there is a shrine office where the priests serve. The surrounding area of the main shrine is rich in nature, such as plum and cedar trees, and you can feel the beauty of the four seasons. The main shrine of Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine is not only a place where you can feel the history and tradition, but also a sacred space surrounded by beautiful architectural style and nature that heals your heart. When you visit the main shrine, be sure to experience its dignified appearance and serene atmosphere.

At Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine, there are numerous plum trees, but the most famous is the "Flying Plum". The Flying Plum is located right next to the main shrine and has been deeply connected to Sugawara no Michizane for a long time. This plum tree not only blooms beautiful flowers, but also has an inspiring story. According to legend, when Sugawara no Michizane was exiled from Kyoto to Dazaifu, he composed a poem for his beloved plum tree, expressing his wish to "welcome spring together with you again someday, even if we are far apart". After Michizane arrived in Dazaifu, it is said that the plum tree flew from Kyoto to Dazaifu in response to his feelings. Even now, the Flying Plum blooms beautifully next to Michizane's main shrine in Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine. In spring, many people visit to admire the beauty of the Flying Plum's flowers and are captivated by its beauty. The Flying Plum is a symbol that conveys the importance of loyalty and affection to people, and it colors the scenery of Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine. When visiting the Flying Plum, please enjoy the beauty of the flowers while imagining the deep bond between Sugawara no Michizane and the plum tree, as well as its inspiring story.

Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine has not only historical and cultural attractions, but also wonderful artistic features. Various art works are displayed on the shrine grounds, allowing visitors to enjoy art appreciation and find peace of mind. There is a historical painting called "Tenjin Engi" on the grounds. It was painted in the Heian period and depicts the life of Sugawara no Michizane. The scroll tells the story of Michizane's birth, his exile to Dazaifu, and how he became the god of learning. This valuable scroll is currently on display at the Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine Treasure Hall. In addition, there are various sculptures on the grounds. Among them, the wooden carving "Oniishi" is a popular piece among visitors. Oniishi is a stone said to have been thrown by Michizane when he died, and is believed to cut off bad relationships. Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine also actively engages in contemporary art. Regular exhibitions of contemporary art are held on the grounds, and many artists donate their works. These works serve as a bridge connecting cultures from ancient to modern times, bringing out the new charm of Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine! Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine provides a space for enriching the mind through art. Visitors can appreciate beautiful art works in a sacred space and feel peace of mind. When you visit Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine, be sure to take a look at the art works and feel their charm!

At Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine, numerous attractive festivals are held throughout the year, allowing visitors to experience the history, culture, and charm of the region. The "Jingu Kogo Go-sai-shin Kourin-sai" held to welcome the new year includes prayers that recall the deep connection with the imperial family. In the "O-harae-shiki" held every six months, sins and impurities accumulated over the past half year are purified, preparing for the new season. The "Nijyugo-nichi-sai" held on the 25th of every month is a festival that mourns the death anniversary of Sugawara no Michizane and praises his achievements. The "Tanabata Matsuri" is a summer tradition where visitors write their wishes on strips of paper hung on the shrine grounds. The "Shuki Reitaisai" is a festival held in autumn that includes various events and traditional ceremonies to express gratitude to Sugawara no Michizane. At the "Kyokusui no En," a recreation of a Heian period event, visitors can enjoy a refined atmosphere and feel the romance of history. The "Tenka-in Rajo-mon Matsuri" is a special day when valuable treasures are open to the public, allowing visitors to experience their historical value. At the end of the year, the "Yakuyoke Taisai" is held to prepare for the new year while praying for good fortune. The festivals at Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine are a valuable opportunity to enjoy traditional events and customs in a sacred space. Through these diverse festivals, you can experience the history, culture, and charm of Japan and the region. Please visit Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine and experience its charm for yourself!