Hofu Tenmangu Shrine

Houfu Tenmangu

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A historic Tenmangu Shrine known as the first to be built in Japan. Famous as the shrine of the god of scholarship, it's visited by many seeking success in exams and academic achievements.

Tourist destination images of Hofu Tenmangu Shrine(1)

Tourist destination images of Hofu Tenmangu Shrine(2)

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Overview

Hofu Tenmangu Shrine, located in Hofu City, Yamaguchi Prefecture, enshrines Sugawara Michizane, the renowned god of scholarship. Counted among the three great Tenjin shrines of Japan, along with Kitano Tenmangu in Kyoto and Dazaifu Tenmangu in Fukuoka, it was founded in 904, the year after Michizane's death, making it the first Tenjin shrine in Japan. Hofu Tenmangu Shrine enjoys deep reverence as the god of scholarship, particularly attracting many visitors during exam seasons. The shrine grounds boast a plum grove where Michizane's beloved plum blossoms bloom, creating a breathtaking scene in spring. The Shunkuro, a multi-storied lodging building, offers panoramic views of Hofu City. The annual Goshin-sai Festival (also known as the Hadaka-bo Festival) in November is famous for its spectacular procession, featuring the pulling of a massive 1-ton o-ajiro (a type of portable shrine). During this festival, local parishioners carry a mikoshi (portable shrine) containing Michizane's spirit while bare-chested, creating a powerful and electrifying atmosphere. Hofu Tenmangu Shrine is not only rich in history and culture, but also renowned as a power spot. Visit not only to pray for academic success, but also to cleanse your mind and body and embark on a new beginning. 【Hofu Tenmangu Shrine Highlights】 * Main shrine enshrining Sugawara Michizane * Plum grove blooming with Michizane's beloved plum blossoms * Multi-storied lodging building, "Shunkuro" * Historical museum * Annual Goshin-sai Festival (Hadaka-bo Festival) in November

Shrines and Temples
National Treasure
Historic Sites

Basic Information

Address: 14-1, Matsuzakicho, Hofu City, Yamaguchi Prefecture Search for tourist attractions in Yamaguchi

Access: By Train: Approximately a 20-minute walk from Hofu Station on the Sanyo Main Line. By Bus: From Hofu Station, Tenjin-guchi (north side), Bus Stop No. 2, take the bus bound for 【Amidadera】 and get off at Hofu Tenmangu Shrine (approximately 5 minutes). It's a 3-minute walk from the bus stop. By Car: Highway (Sanyo Expressway) From Hiroshima direction ⇒ Approximately 10 minutes from Hofu-Higashi Interchange From Fukuoka direction ⇒ Approximately 10 minutes from Hofu-Nishi Interchange *天神山公園 parking lot: 500 spaces (large buses can also park) *Free. There is also a free parking lot for large buses across from the Omotesando Ume Terrace. *Please note that due to traffic regulations during New Year's (January 1st-3rd) and the annual Goshin-sai Festival (4th Saturday and the following Sunday of November), bus parking requires a prior reservation. Please contact the office for details: 0835-23-7700 (Hofu Tenmangu Shrine) Show route