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Japan’s first Tenjin shrine.
Founded in 904, Hofu Tenmangu Shrine is Japan’s first Tenmangu shrine dedicated to Sugawara no Michizane, revered as the god of learning.
During the Heian period, Sugawara no Michizane earned the Emperor’s deep trust through his integrity in government and was appointed Minister of the Right at the age of 55. However, the powerful Fujiwara clan falsely accused him of wrongdoing, and in 901 he was demoted and sent to Dazaifu in Kyushu. It is said that he stopped here, then part of Suo Province in present-day Yamaguchi Prefecture, on his journey west.
Although there are approximately 12,000 shrines dedicated to Sugawara no Michizane throughout Japan, Hofu Tenmangu is known as the country’s first Tenjin shrine. Together with Kitano Tenmangu Shrine in Kyoto and Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine in Fukuoka, it is considered one of Japan’s Three Great Tenjin Shrines. Worshippers visit each day to pray for success in entrance examinations and academic achievement, as well as family safety, health and longevity, and prosperity in business.
The main sanctuary features a refined architectural style evocative of the Heian period. Many of the buildings and other cultural properties within the shrine grounds are designated as National Registered Tangible Cultural Properties, Prefectural Tangible Cultural Properties, or Prefectural Historic Sites.
A vivid vermilion two-story gate stands at the top of the broad stone steps
Omikuji fortunes, amulets, goshuin shrine stamps, and other items are available
Approximately 1,100 plum trees begin to bloom in mid-February
The Hofu Tenmangu Gojinkosai, also known as the Hadakabo Festival, conveys the news of Michizane’s innocence to him
The Hofu Tenmangu Gotanshinsai celebrates the birthday of Sugawara no Michizane, the shrine’s enshrined deity
