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Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine

The head shrine of 10,000 shrines across Japan, dedicated to the spirit of scholar Sugawara Michizane.

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Dazaifu Tenmangu is the head shrine of 10,000 different shrines across Japan dedicated to the spirit of Sugawara Michizane. Sugawara was an acclaimed scholar who was deemed innocent posthumously after being exiled to Dazaifu by Kyoto’s Imperial Court.
The main hall was built over his grave and has been preserved as a sacred site of Tenjin worship for over 1100 years.

Sugawara Michizane was an acclaimed scholar, politician and writer known for his many talents, now deified as a spirit of scholarship that’s worshipped by students from both within Japan and internationally praying for school exams.

The vast grounds include a number of sites, including the large ox statue, arched Taiko-bashi bridges, treasure hall, Dazaifu Tenmangu Art Program and more.
You can also enjoy a backdrop of seasonal blooms when the plum blossoms come into season.

*Currently, as of April 2024, the main hall, an Important Cultural Property, is undergoing its first major renovation in 124 years. However, during the renovation period, which is set to last until around 2026, visitors can worship at a special temporary shrine.

Highlights

  • Enshrines Sugawara Michizane, the deified spirit of scholarship.
  • Throughout the shrine grounds, 11 sacred ox statues have been donated, and it is said that stroking their heads will grant wisdom. This has made them very popular among visitors.
  • It is also renowned as a famous spot for plum blossoms, with about 6,000 trees ranging from early to late bloomers. The best viewing period is from late January to early March.
  • The approx. 400-meter long promenade includes souvenir shops and eateries. The umegae mochi treat is especially popular.
  • The main hall is currently undergoing renovations as of April 2024, with completion expected around 2026. During this period, a special temporary hall has been set up for a limited time of three years.

Photos

  • Currently, as of April 2024, the main hall, an Important Cultural Property, is undergoing its first major renovation in 124 years. However, during the renovation period, which is set to last until around 2026, visitors can worship at a special temporary shrine.

    Currently, as of April 2024, the main hall, an Important Cultural Property, is undergoing its first major renovation in 124 years. However, during the renovation period, which is set to last until around 2026, visitors can worship at a special temporary shrine.

  • The unique "Romon" gate appears two-storied from the Taiko-bashi bridges side and one-storied from the main hall side.

    The unique "Romon" gate appears two-storied from the Taiko-bashi bridges side and one-storied from the main hall side.

  • The ox statue, believed to grant wisdom to those who stroke its head.

    The ox statue, believed to grant wisdom to those who stroke its head.

  • The picturesque Taiko-bashi bridges spans the Shinji-ike pond, with its three beautiful vermilion bridges.

    The picturesque Taiko-bashi bridges spans the Shinji-ike pond, with its three beautiful vermilion bridges.

  • Known for its plum blossoms, which typically bloom from January to March, making it a famous spot for viewing plum blossoms.

    Known for its plum blossoms, which typically bloom from January to March, making it a famous spot for viewing plum blossoms.

  • The "Treasure Hall" hosts exhibitions related to the revered Michizane Sugawara and contemporary art.

    The "Treasure Hall" hosts exhibitions related to the revered Michizane Sugawara and contemporary art.

Official FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions have been vetted and answered directly by each listing.

Q

Do you have pamphlets in other languages? (If so, please also inform us of the supported languages)
A

Yes, pamphlets are available in English, French, Thai, Korean, Simplified Chinese, and Traditional Chinese.

Q

Do you have shrine’s red ink stamps?
A

Yes, available (including pre-written ones).

Q

Is parking available?
A

Yes.

Q

Are coin lockers available?
A

None at the shrine (available at Dazaifu Station).

Reviews

Details

Name in Japanese
太宰府天満宮
Postal Code
818-0117
Address
4-7-1 Saifu, Dazaifu City, Fukuoka
Tel
092-922-8225
Closed
The shrine grounds are open to the public every day.
Hours
Opening times vary by season. Please refer to the website for details.
Admission
Free
※Admission into the Treasure Hall/Kanko History Museum requires a separate fee.
Access
5 min. walk from Dazaifu Station on the Nishitetsu Lines.
Official Website
Official Website (English)

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