Kitano Tenmangu Shrine

What to know

Kitano Tenmangu Shrine (北野天満宮, Kitano Tenmangū) is one of the most important of several hundred shrines across Japan dedicated to Sugawara Michizane, a scholar and politician who was unjustly exiled by his political rivals. After his death in exile, a series of disasters were attributed to his vengeful spirit, prompting the construction of these shrines to appease him.

Sugawara Michizane is associated with Tenjin, the Shinto deity of education. As a result, many students visit Kitano Tenmangu to pray for academic success, and the shrine becomes especially crowded during exam season.

Michizane had a deep love for plum trees. One tree, known as tobiume or "flying plum tree," is said to have followed him from Kyoto to his exile in Kyushu. Because of this legend, a plum tree always stands in front of the offering hall at Tenmangu shrines.

In addition to the tobiume, Kitano Tenmangu boasts a grove of nearly 2,000 plum trees that bloom from February to March. Every February 25, the shrine hosts a special tea ceremony called Baikasai in the plum grove, attended by maiko and geiko from the nearby Kamishichiken geiko district.

Kitano Tenmangu is also a popular spot for autumn colors. The shrine opens its garden to the public during peak leaf season from late October to early December. Hundreds of maple trees line the garden's river and are illuminated in the evenings.

Last but not least, a flea market is held on the shrine grounds and surrounding streets on the 25th of every month. Hundreds of vendors sell plants, antiques, tools, toys, and crafts, alongside many food stalls offering festival fare such as yakisoba, karaage, and takoyaki.