The Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Dazaifu, Fukuoka Prefecture, Japan. It was built in 919 A.D. and is dedicated to Sugawara no Michizane, a scholar and politician who is revered as the deity of learning, Tenjin. It is a popular destination for students praying for success in exams.
To reach Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine from Fukuoka, you can take the Nishitetsu train from Tenjin or Fukuoka to Dazaifu Station. The shrine is about a five-minute walk from the station.
The best time to visit is during the plum blossom season in late February to early March, or during the autumn colors in November. However, the shrine is popular and welcoming throughout the year. Traditional festivals such as Tenjin Matsuri in February and the Dazaifu Tenmangu Autumn Festival in October also attract many visitors.
No, there is no entrance fee for Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine. Visitors can explore the shrine grounds and most of its buildings for free.
The shrine is typically open from 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM during spring and summer (March to October) and from 6:30 AM to 5:30 PM during autumn and winter (November to February). These hours may vary on special occasions or festivals.
Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine is one of the most important Tenmangu shrines in Japan. It holds great cultural significance due to its connection with Sugawara no Michizane and its influence on the local and national celebration of Tenjin festivals. It is also known for its impressive architecture, beautiful gardens, and historical artifacts.
Yes, visitors can partake in various Shinto rituals, such as purchasing omikuji (fortune-telling slips) or ema (wooden prayer plaques). During the year, the shrine hosts several cultural festivals and events where guests can experience traditional Japanese customs.
Yes, the shrine grounds are generally accessible for visitors with disabilities. There are paths leading to most areas, but visitors should note that some sections may not be as easily navigable due to traditional construction or natural features. It is recommended to check with the shrine's office for specific accessibility information.
Yes, there are many dining options near the shrine, ranging from traditional Japanese restaurants and teahouses to cafes. Visitors can enjoy local specialties such as umegae mochi, a sweet rice cake with red bean paste, which is a popular treat in the area.
After visiting the shrine, guests can explore nearby attractions such as the Kyushu National Museum, Komyozenji Temple known for its stone garden, or enjoy a stroll through the historic streets of Dazaifu which are lined with shops and eateries.