Kitano-Tenmangu
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TEL :075-461-0005 Address :Bakurocho, Kamigyo Ward, Kyoto Access :JR Kyoto Station > Kyoto City Bus number 50 > Kitano Tenmangu mae bus stop Parking :There is a parking lot |
Introduction to Kitano-Tenmangu shrine
Kitano-Tenmangu Shrine was founded in 947. The shrine enshrines Sugawara no Michizane, who is known for granting academic benefits. It is the head shrine of the approximately 12,000 Tenmangu shrines and Tenjin shrines throughout Japan.
Within the grounds are the main hall, a national treasure, and the Sankomon Gate, an important cultural property.
Sugawara no Michizane kept cattle as his companions. For this reason, there are many cattle statues within the shrine grounds. Petting these cattle is said to bring good luck in studying and passing exams.
Most of the cattle are lying down, but only the main shrine sculpture is standing. It’s at the bottom right in the photo above.
It is also famous for its plum garden, where approximately 1,500 plum trees of 50 different varieties are planted. The flowers bloom in February and March and are at their best.
Festival on the 25th of every month
On the 25th of every month, outdoor stalls line the approach to the shrine and the grounds are lit up at night.
When I visited, a Japanese drum performance was taking place. The sound rang out loud and was very impressive.
There were some small children performing alongside them, and they were not only cute, but also powerful enough to rival any adult.
