Wakaura Tenmangu Shrine

Overview

Wakaura Tenmangu Shrine is a shrine located in Wakaura Nishi, Wakayama City, Wakayama Prefecture. It enshrines Sugawara Michizane, known as the god of scholarship, and is visited by many students every year. It's counted as one of the three great Sugawara shrines in Japan, along with Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine and Kitano Tenmangu Shrine, and has been a center of faith for many years. The history of Wakaura Tenmangu Shrine dates back to the Heian period. Sugawara Michizane, the Right Minister, was demoted in the Shotei Incident and appointed to the post of Dazaifu Gon-sochi. On his way to Dazaifu, he stopped his ship at Wakaura to avoid rough seas. From the mountain (Tenjin-yama) where the current shrine stands, he looked out at Wakaura and is said to have composed a poem. Later, during the Konpo era (964-968) of Emperor Murakami, Councilor Tachibana Naokimi stopped at Wakaura on his way back from Dazaifu and built a shrine here, enshrining Michizane's spirit. This is considered the beginning of the shrine. The grounds are full of highlights, including the gate and main hall, which are designated as Important Cultural Properties. The gate was rebuilt in 1605 by Asano Yukinaga, the lord of Wakayama Castle. It's one of the largest single-bay, single-door gates in Japan, and its magnificent appearance is impressive. The vermillion pillars and vivid carvings are beautiful and awe-inspiring to visitors. The main hall was rebuilt in 1606, and its elaborate details, including carved frog-shaped brackets (kaerumata) and brightly colored decorations, are truly captivating. The stone walls behind the main hall and in front of the gate were also built at this time, showcasing the advanced technology of that era. Wakaura Tenmangu Shrine is known not only as a shrine to the god of scholarship but also for its beautiful views of Wakaura Bay. The vast and beautiful sea from the shrine grounds is breathtaking and calming. In spring, the grounds are even more vibrant with blooming cherry blossoms. Wakaura Tenmangu Shrine is a wonderful place where history, nature, and faith harmoniously blend. Please visit and experience its charm for yourself.