Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine
Sacred Shrine of Learning and Scholarship Excellence
Dazaifu Tenmangu was established in 905 AD to enshrine the spirit of Sugawara no Michizane (845-903), a renowned scholar, poet, and politician who served at the Heian court. After being falsely accused of treason, he was exiled to Dazaifu in Kyushu, where he died two years later in despair. Following his death, a series of natural disasters in Kyoto were attributed to his vengeful spirit.
To appease his spirit, Michizane was posthumously restored to his former rank and deified as Tenjin, the deity of learning, literature, and scholarship. His grave in Dazaifu became a shrine, eventually growing into one of the three major Tenmangu shrines in Japan. The shrine's sacred cow statues are said to bring good fortune when touched, and rubbing specific body parts on the cow is believed to heal corresponding ailments.
The shrine attracts over 8 million visitors annually, especially students praying for academic success before entrance examinations. The grounds feature approximately 6,000 plum trees - Michizane's favorite - which bloom spectacularly each February and March. The shrine remains a center of Japanese cultural heritage, hosting traditional arts, calligraphy, and seasonal festivals.
Key Highlights
- Established in 905 AD to honor scholar deity Sugawara no Michizane
- One of Japan's three major Tenmangu shrines
- Over 8 million annual visitors, especially students
- 6,000 plum trees bloom February-March
- Sacred bronze cow statues grant wishes and healing
- Stunning modern Starbucks designed by Kengo Kuma
Access Information
Location
4-7-1 Saifu, Dazaifu, Fukuoka 818-0117, Japan
Nearest Stations
- • Dazaifu Station (Nishitetsu Dazaifu Line)
- • Tenjin Station (Fukuoka city center)
Opening Hours
Shrine grounds: 6:00-19:00 (opens 6:30 in winter) | Museum: 9:00-16:30 (closed Mondays)
Admission Fee
Free admission to shrine grounds | Museum: ¥500 for adults, ¥200 for high school students, ¥100 for elementary/junior high
How to Get There
From Fukuoka (Tenjin Station)
Nishitetsu Railway to Futsukaichi, transfer to Dazaifu Line
30 minutes
From Hakata Station
Subway to Tenjin, then Nishitetsu Railway
40 minutes
From Fukuoka Airport
Subway to Tenjin, then Nishitetsu Railway
50 minutes
Tips & Visiting Guide
Make the most of your visit with these helpful tips and guidelines.
Touch the Sacred Cow for Blessings
Several bronze cow statues are located throughout the grounds. Touch or rub the cow, especially the head for intelligence or specific body parts for healing. The cow's heads are worn smooth from millions of visitors' touches.
Purchase Academic Success Charms
The shrine is famous for gakugyo-joju omamori (academic achievement charms) and ema (wooden wishing plaques). Students write their exam goals and prayers on ema before hanging them at the shrine.
Visit During Plum Blossom Season
Late February through early March is magical when 6,000 plum trees bloom in white, pink, and red. The Kyokusui-no-en garden party in March features traditional poetry readings by a winding stream.
Try Umegae Mochi on Approach Path
The approach to the shrine is lined with shops selling umegae mochi - sweet rice cakes grilled with plum blossom insignia. This local specialty is warm, chewy, and filled with sweet red bean paste.
Visit the Famous Kengo Kuma Starbucks
The stunning Starbucks near the shrine entrance was designed by renowned architect Kengo Kuma using traditional interwoven wood construction. It's one of the world's most beautiful Starbucks locations.
Cross the Three Sacred Bridges
The approach includes three arched bridges over a pond representing past, present, and future. Cross all three to purify yourself before reaching the main hall. The reflection in the water is photogenic.
Explore the Shrine Treasure Museum
The Kanko Historical Museum houses Important Cultural Properties including ancient swords, documents, and artwork related to Sugawara no Michizane and the shrine's history.
Experience Seasonal Festivals
Major festivals include the Plum Festival (late Feb-early March), Chrysanthemum Festival (Nov), and New Year's celebrations (Jan 1-7) when millions visit for hatsumode (first shrine visit of the year).
FAQ
How long should I spend at Dazaifu Tenmangu?
Most visitors spend 2-3 hours exploring the shrine, gardens, and approach street with shops. Add an hour if visiting the Kyushu National Museum nearby. During plum blossom season, you might want extra time for photography.
When do the plum blossoms bloom?
Peak plum blossom season is typically late February to early March. The shrine has over 6,000 plum trees that bloom at slightly different times. Check current bloom reports before visiting for best viewing.
What is umegae mochi?
It's Dazaifu's famous sweet - grilled rice cake filled with sweet red bean paste. The treat has been sold here for centuries. Try it fresh and warm from shops along the approach. Most shops offer free samples.
Is this shrine good for exam prayers?
Yes! Dazaifu Tenmangu is Japan's most famous shrine for academic success. Students flock here before exams to pray to Sugawara no Michizane, the deity of learning. Special exam amulets are very popular.
Can I see the shrine's sacred flying plum tree?
Yes, the legendary Tobiume (flying plum) stands to the right of the main hall. According to legend, this tree flew from Kyoto to follow Michizane into exile. It blooms earlier than other plums.
Are there food options besides the approach street?
The approach has many restaurants and cafes, including a popular Starbucks with unique architecture. Several restaurants inside the shrine grounds offer traditional meals. Prices are tourist-area typical but quality is generally good.
Is the shrine crowded on weekends?
Yes, weekends are very busy, especially during exam season (January-March) and plum blossom time. New Year's sees massive crowds. Weekday mornings offer the most peaceful experience.
Should I visit the Kyushu National Museum too?
If you're interested in Asian art and history, definitely. It's a 5-minute walk from the shrine via escalators. The modern architecture contrasts beautifully with the traditional shrine. Combined tickets offer savings.
What's special about the shrine's ox statues?
The ox was Michizane's messenger. Rubbing the statues is said to bring wisdom and heal ailments. Touch the head for intelligence or other body parts for healing. You'll see many polished from countless touches.
Can I attend a traditional ceremony?
Daily prayers occur at 10 AM and 3 PM. Special festivals include Usokae (January 7) and various plum blossom events. Most ceremonies are open to respectful observers. Check the calendar for special events.
Nearby Attractions
Explore more wonderful destinations in the same prefecture.
Hakata Yatai Food Stalls
Iconic open-air street food stalls that come alive at night, offering authentic Fukuoka cuisine and a unique social dining experience at communal counters.
Kokura Castle
A reconstructed castle featuring unique architectural details and a museum showcasing the history of Kitakyushu, set in scenic parklands in the heart of the city.
Mojiko Retro District
Beautifully preserved early 20th-century port district featuring Western-style architecture, historic trade buildings, and waterfront promenades showcasing Kitakyushu's international trading heritage.
Naritasan Kurume Temple
A branch temple of the famous Narita-san in Chiba, known for its massive prayer hall, vibrant festivals, and role as one of Kyushu's most important centers of Shingon Buddhism.
Uminonakamichi Seaside Park
Expansive 350-hectare national seaside park featuring seasonal flower gardens, cycling paths, animal encounters, water park, and beaches across a scenic peninsula.
Yanagawa Canals
Historic canal town offering traditional wooden boat cruises through 930km of waterways lined with willow trees, samurai residences, and stone bridges dating to the Edo period.