Kitano Tenmangu Shrine

Kitano Tenmangu is located near KINO machiya, 5 minutes walking distance neighborhood. Many customers go to Kitano Tenmangu for a morning walk. In Japan, there is a custom of making morning visits to shrines and temples, known as "Asa-mairi". How about visiting Kitano Tenmangu for your morning walk? As it is a large shrine, why not explore the inside as well? Kitano Tenmangu is believed to be the god of learning.

History of Kitano Tenmangu Shrine：

Kitano Tenmangu Shrine was established during the Jogan era of the Heian period (859-877) to enshrine Sugawara no Michizane. Sugawara no Michizane was a prominent figure in literature and scholarship during the early Heian period, and also served as a government official. However, due to political disagreements, he fell out of favor and was eventually exiled to Ise Grand Shrine, leading to his self-inflicted death.

Following Michizane's death, a series of disasters were believed to be caused by his vengeful spirit. To atone for his wrongful conviction, he was deified and enshrined as Tenjin, the god of scholarship and learning. Thus, Kitano Tenmangu Shrine became known as a place of worship for culture and learning, with many students and exam takers showing deep faith in the deity of learning. Located in the heart of Kyoto city, Kitano Tenmangu Shrine attracts a large number of visitors.

At Kitano Tenmangu Shrine, numerous annual events and festivals are held throughout the year. The following are representative annual events held at Kitano Tenmangu:

1. Reisai (Grand Festival): The largest festival at Kitano Tenmangu, celebrating the birth of the Tenjin deity, is held on February 25th every year. Many worshippers visit, and ceremonies and performances of traditional Shinto music and dance are dedicated by priests.

2. Hatsumode (First Shrine Visit of the New Year): As a traditional New Year's visit, many people visit Kitano Tenmangu from New Year's Day until January 3rd. Ema (votive plaques), prayers for good luck, and wishes are made during this visit.

3. Ume Matsuri (Plum Blossom Festival): Held from late February to early March when the plum blossoms at Kitano Tenmangu are in full bloom. In addition to enjoying the plum blossoms, there are stalls and events held during this festival.

4. Culture Day: On November 3rd every year, Kitano Tenmangu celebrates Culture Day. On this day, ceremonies and performances of cultural arts are dedicated by priests, honoring the importance of culture.

Through these annual events, visitors can experience the history and culture of Kitano Tenmangu, making it a popular destination for many worshippers and tourists