Kitano Tenmangu Shrine is located in Kamigyo Ward, Kyoto, and is known as the guardian of the northwestern part of the city.
This prestigious shrine was historically granted special protection by the imperial court during times of national crises or natural disasters. Today, it’s widely recognized as a spiritual spot dedicated to Sugawara no Michizane, the deity of learning and scholarship.
Often called “Tenjin-san” or “Kitano-san” by locals, Kitano Tenmangu Shrine, along with Dazaifu Tenmangu in Fukuoka, is a major center of Tenjin worship. Visitors can admire its National Treasure-designated shrine buildings and over 10 “Nade-ushi” (rubbing bulls) statues scattered throughout the grounds, believed to bring good luck.
In this guide, we’ll introduce all the highlights of Kitano Tenmangu Shrine, including its historical significance and must-see attractions!
What is Kitano Tenmangu Shrine?
Kitano Tenmangu Shrine is a historic shrine located in Kamigyo Ward, Kyoto.
It is one of the “Twenty-Two Shrines” (Nijunisha), a prestigious group of shrines that received special reverence from the imperial court during important national events.
Also known as “Tenjin-san” or “Kitano-san,” this shrine is a central site for Tenjin worship. Dedicated to Sugawara no Michizane, the deity of learning, the shrine features symbols closely connected to Michizane, such as ox statues and plum trees.
The History of Kitano Tenmangu Shrine
The origins of Kitano Tenmangu date back to the Heian period (794–1185).
Sugawara no Michizane, a high-ranking official and scholar, was falsely accused by Fujiwara no Tokihira and exiled from Kyoto to Dazaifu in modern-day Fukuoka. He died in sorrow, far from the capital. After his death, a series of natural disasters, including lightning strikes, plagued Kyoto.
To appease Michizane’s spirit, the shrine was established in 947 at its current location in Kitano. In 987, the emperor’s envoy conducted a special ceremony at the shrine, and Emperor Ichijo bestowed the name “Kitano Tenmangu Tenjin.” The name “Tenmangu” is believed to derive from Michizane’s posthumous title, Tenman Daijizai Tenjin.
Over time, Kitano Tenmangu became one of the most revered shrines, gaining the devotion of the imperial court, the Sugawara family, the Fujiwara clan, and later the Ashikaga shogunate.
In 1587, Toyotomi Hideyoshi hosted the famous “Kitano Grand Tea Ceremony” here, and remnants from that event, such as the Odoi embankment, are now designated as a National Historic Site.
During the Edo period, Michizane’s reputation shifted from a vengeful spirit to a celebrated scholar. As a result, he became widely revered as the deity of learning, a belief that continues to this day.
Today, Kitano Tenmangu Shrine is the center of Tenjin worship, featuring many attractions, including its National Treasure-designated main hall and historic grounds. Explore this remarkable shrine and immerse yourself in its rich history and cultural significance.
Visitor Information for Kitano Tenmangu Shrine
- Address: Bakuro-cho, Kamigyo Ward, Kyoto, Japan
- Map: Google Maps
- Phone: +81-75-461-0005
- Closed: Open year-round
- Hours:
- April–September: 5:00 AM–6:00 PM
- October–March: 5:30 AM–5:30 PM (Extended hours during special events like autumn illuminations and New Year’s celebrations)
- Official Website: Kitano Tenmangu Shrine
Kitano Tenmangu Shrine is just a 30-minute trip from Kyoto Station, making it an easily accessible destination. Taxis are readily available in front of the shrine, offering convenient transportation to other attractions if bus schedules don’t align with your plans.
The shrine features mostly flat, stone-paved paths and has very few steps, making it wheelchair-friendly and accessible for visitors with mobility challenges.
Kitano Tenmangu frequently hosts seasonal events and special exhibitions:
- Treasures Hall Open Days: January 1, December 1, the 25th of each month, and during the plum, green maple, and autumn foliage seasons.
- Plum Grove Viewing: Early February to late March.
- Green Maple Viewing (Odoi area): Early May to late June.
- Autumn Leaves Garden Viewing (Momiji-en): Late October to early December.
The shrine’s scenic beauty changes with the seasons, offering visitors the chance to enjoy plum blossoms, fresh green leaves, and vibrant autumn foliage. It’s also a popular power spot, especially during exam season, when many students visit to pray for success.
Admission Fees
- Autumn Leaves Garden Viewing: Adults ¥1,000, Children ¥500
- Treasures Hall: Adults ¥800, Middle/High School Students ¥400, Children ¥250 (Free for preschool children)
- Plum Grove Viewing: Adults ¥1,000, Children ¥500 (includes tea and sweets)
- Green Maple Viewing: Adults ¥500, Children ¥250
How to Access Kitano Tenmangu Shrine
Kitano Tenmangu Shrine is located in the northern part of Kyoto and can be reached in about 30 minutes from the city center using public transportation like buses or trains.
Although it’s situated within the city, the area around the shrine has a calm and serene atmosphere. The shrine is easily accessible from various stations served by Kyoto’s major transportation networks, including Keihan, Hankyu, JR, and the subway.
By Train and Bus:
- From Keifuku Railway Shijo Line (“Shiraminecho” Station): 5-minute walk.
- From JR Kyoto Station: Take City Bus routes 50 or 101, get off at Kitano Tenmangu-mae, and you’ll be right at the shrine.
- From JR Enmachi Station: Take City Bus route 203, and get off at Kitano Tenmangu-mae.
- From Subway Imadegawa Station: Take City Bus routes 51, 102, or 203 to Kitano Tenmangu-mae.
- From Keihan Demachiyanagi Station: Take City Bus routes 102 or 203 to Kitano Tenmangu-mae.
- From Keihan Sanjo Station: Take City Bus route 10 to Kitano Tenmangu-mae.
- From Hankyu Omiya Station: Take City Bus route 55 to Kitano Tenmangu-mae.
- From Hankyu Saiin Station: Take City Bus route 203 to Kitano Tenmangu-mae.
Highlights of Kitano Tenmangu Shrine
The expansive grounds of Kitano Tenmangu Shrine are filled with fascinating spots, including the National Treasure main hall and several Important Cultural Properties. From sacred cows said to bring blessings when touched, to mysterious legends passed down through the ages, Kitano Tenmangu offers countless charms to explore.
Here are some unique spots that you shouldn’t miss, introduced from the perspective of a frequent visitor.
1. A Hidden Gem – Higashimuki Kannon-ji and the Tsuchigumo Lantern
On the path leading to the main hall of Kitano Tenmangu Shrine, you’ll find Higashimuki Kannon-ji, a lesser-known yet historically significant temple.
Founded in 806, it was originally called Asahiji Temple and has a longer history than Kitano Tenmangu itself. When Kitano Tenmangu was established, Asahiji became a sub-temple and housed an 11-faced Kannon statue said to have been carved by Sugawara no Michizane, the deity enshrined at Kitano Tenmangu.
The temple’s original main hall featured two Kannon statues—one facing east (Higashimuki Kannon) and another facing west. However, the western statue was lost in a fire centuries ago.
Notably, Empress Dowager Shoken, the wife of Emperor Meiji, studied at this temple before her marriage. While photography is not allowed within the grounds, visiting in person to admire the architecture and pay respects is highly recommended.
The Banshi Mausoleum honors Sugawara no Michizane’s mother, the deity’s guiding influence. Originally located next to the Banshi Shrine near the third torii gate of Kitano Tenmangu, the mausoleum was later relocated to its current site.
In Kyoto, there is a tradition of visiting this mausoleum after the mourning period for a loved one ends. Because of this practice, the mausoleum is also called the Kimei-to (End-of-Mourning Tower). Its impressive stone structure is a quiet yet meaningful spot within the shrine grounds.
The Banshi Shrine, also dedicated to Michizane’s mother, is a small but intriguing spot along the path. Though it might be easy to overlook, its torii gate is one of Kyoto’s Three Rare Torii Gates.
The design is unique, with the kasagi (top beam) featuring a gakuzuka (wooden plaque holder) embedded within it—a rare architectural feature. The base of the gate is also adorned with lotus flower petals carved into the stone, adding to its charm.
This torii gate has been designated an Important Cultural Property, making it a must-see for those interested in traditional architecture and craftsmanship.
2. Iconic Architecture of Kitano Tenmangu – The Main Hall and Sankomon Gate
Two of the most iconic structures at Kitano Tenmangu Shrine are the Main Hall and the Sankomon Gate, also known as the Middle Gate.
The Main Hall complex consists of four connected buildings: the Main Hall (Honden), the Stone Corridor (Ishi-no-Ma), the Worship Hall (Haiden), and the Music Hall (Raku-no-Ma). This distinctive layout, known as Yatsumune-zukuri or Gongen-zukuri, features the Main Hall and Worship Hall linked by a stone-paved corridor.
The current Main Hall, rebuilt in 1607 by Toyotomi Hideyori, is designated as a National Treasure. Its intricate carvings, golden decorations, and vibrant design showcase the opulence of Momoyama-period architecture.
As a shrine dedicated to Sugawara no Michizane, the deity of learning, Kitano Tenmangu offers various charms and talismans, including academic pencils and items for success in exams.
In front of the Main Hall, you’ll find a spacious plaza lined with a plum tree on the left and a large black pine on the right. During early spring, the plum tree blooms with vibrant flowers, creating a picturesque scene that blends history and nature.
Standing before the Main Hall, the Sankomon Gate is a masterpiece that welcomes visitors. This Middle Gate is adorned with the inscription “Tenmangu” written by Emperor Go-Sai and intricate decorations that embody grandeur.
The gate is called Sankomon because of the carvings of the sun, moon, and stars on its beams. However, it is also famously known as the “Missing Star Gate.” Upon close inspection, you’ll notice that the star symbol is absent.
This unique design is said to reflect an ancient belief: from the perspective of the Imperial Palace, the North Star would shine directly above the gate. To honor this celestial connection, the star was intentionally left out, allowing the sky itself to complete the design.
This story is one of the shrine’s Seven Mysteries and adds a layer of wonder to the gate’s significance. Visitors are encouraged to admire the gate’s role in uniting architecture with the natural heavens above, symbolizing the protection of Heian-kyo (ancient Kyoto).
3. Experience the Beauty of All Four Seasons at Kitano Tenmangu
The expansive grounds of Kitano Tenmangu Shrine showcase breathtaking scenery throughout the year, offering visitors a chance to enjoy the beauty of every season.
Kitano Tenmangu is renowned as a plum blossom viewing destination. From late December, the buds begin to swell, reaching their peak bloom from mid-February to mid-March.
With 1,500 plum trees representing 50 varieties, including the early-blooming Kanko Bai and the rare Kuro Bai, the shrine’s grounds transform into a sea of blossoms. During this time, the Plum Garden opens to the public for a limited period, from early February to late March. Visitors can enjoy traditional tea and sweets while admiring the vibrant blossoms in this special garden.
Within the shrine’s grounds lies a section of the Odoi, an ancient embankment built by Toyotomi Hideyoshi to prevent flooding in Kyoto. Surrounding the Odoi is a natural forest that bursts into brilliant shades of red and gold during autumn.
This area, known as the Maple Garden, features over 350 maple trees, including those planted in later years. Highlights include the vermilion arched Uguisu Bridge over Kamiyagawa River and a 600-year-old tree, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll.
From mid-November to early December, the Maple Garden is open for evening illuminations, creating a magical, otherworldly atmosphere. The vivid autumn leaves and the gentle murmur of the stream offer a peaceful retreat, a scene once cherished by Sugawara no Michizane himself.
From early May to late June, Kitano Tenmangu’s grounds become a lush haven of vibrant green. The Odoi area, so vivid in autumn, transforms into a refreshing landscape of fresh maple leaves, known as Aomomiji.
Whether you visit for the plum blossoms of winter, the fiery maples of autumn, or the serene greenery of early summer, Kitano Tenmangu invites you to experience the beauty of nature through every season.
4. Hidden Gems at Kitano Tenmangu: The “Nadeushi” and Treasure Hall
At Kitano Tenmangu Shrine, cows are considered sacred animals and messengers of the gods.
There are various legends about the connection between Sugawara no Michizane, the shrine’s deity, and cows. One story suggests he was born in the Year of the Ox and passed away during the Month of the Ox on the Day of the Ox. Another tale claims that the ox pulling his funeral carriage collapsed in grief and refused to move, leading to the creation of the seated cow statues found throughout the shrine.
Known as Nadeushi (stroking cows), these statues are believed to have healing powers. Visitors touch the part of the cow that corresponds to their ailment, hoping for recovery. The shiny, polished areas, such as the head and back, reveal how often people seek the blessings of these sacred cows. Among the many seated cow statues, there is one standing cow—see if you can find it during your visit!
Next to the grand torii gate at the shrine’s entrance, you’ll find the Kage Matsu, a towering pine tree that has been part of Kitano Tenmangu since its founding. According to legend, during the first snowfall between Ritto (the start of winter) and Risshun (the start of spring), the deity descends upon this sacred tree to compose poetry.
To this day, a special ceremony is held on the first snowy day of winter, where an inkstone, brush, and ink are offered to the tree in honor of this tradition.
The imposing two-story Romon Gate was built in the lavish architectural style of the Momoyama period. Its central plaque is inscribed with the phrase Bundo Taisho Fugetsu Honshu, honoring Sugawara no Michizane as a great scholar and poet.
Nearby, you can find remnants of the historic Kitano Grand Tea Gathering, a massive tea ceremony hosted by Toyotomi Hideyoshi. Don’t miss the Taiko Well, which supplied water for tea prepared by the legendary tea master Sen no Rikyu, as well as the commemorative stone monument marking the event.
Kitano Tenmangu boasts over 1,000 years of history and is home to cultural treasures left by emperors, nobility, and samurai.
The Treasure Hall, open during special periods, houses many valuable artifacts, including the National Treasure Kitano Tenjin Engi Emaki (Illustrated Legends of Kitano Tenjin). This scroll, the oldest of its kind, is remarkable for its size, ranging from 8.42 meters to over 12 meters in length.
In addition to the permanent collection, the hall hosts special themed exhibitions showcasing a wide range of treasures such as ancient documents, swords, lacquerware, and tea ceremony tools. A visit to the Treasure Hall is a must for anyone interested in Japanese history and culture.
Sightseeing Spots Near Kitano Tenmangu Shrine
The area around Kitano Tenmangu Shrine is filled with must-see attractions, including other shrines and traditional Kyoto architecture. Here, we’ve selected spots you can reach within 30 minutes from Kitano Tenmangu.
1. Kyoto Imperial Palace – A Glimpse into Japan’s Imperial History
The Kyoto Imperial Palace (Kyoto Gosho) was the residence of Japan’s emperors and the center of politics from 1331 to 1869. Since 2016, the palace has been open to the public for free, allowing visitors to explore its rich history and stunning architecture.
Spread over an impressive 110,000 square meters, the palace grounds feature notable landmarks like the Shishinden (Hall for State Ceremonies) and the Oikeniwa (Imperial Garden).
The Shishinden, the palace’s main ceremonial hall, is particularly remarkable. Built in the irimoya (hip-and-gable) style with a cypress bark roof, it showcases the grandeur of imperial Japan. Inside, you can see the emperor’s throne (Takamikura) in the center and the empress’s seat (Michodai) on the east side. Standing in front of the white gravel courtyard (dantei), you’ll feel the weight of history as you imagine the significant ceremonies that took place here.
The Kyoto Imperial Palace is located within Kyoto Gyoen National Garden, a park that once housed over 140 residences of imperial family members and court nobles during the Edo period. Today, it’s a beautifully landscaped public park, perfect for strolling and relaxing.
In spring, the garden transforms into a floral wonderland with peach blossoms in mid-March and cherry blossoms later in the season. Its vast, peaceful grounds make it an ideal spot to unwind after exploring the palace.
Kyoto Imperial Palace
- Address: Kyoto Gyoen 3, Kamigyo Ward, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture
- Map: Google Maps
- Access: 5-minute walk from Imadegawa Station (Karasuma Subway Line) or “Karasuma Imadegawa” Bus Stop
- Phone: 075-211-1215
- Closed: Mondays, year-end holidays, and special event days
- Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Admission Fee: Free
- Official Website: Kyoto Imperial Palace
2. Shokoku-ji Temple – A Historic Zen Temple with Japan’s Oldest Dharma Hall
Located just a 5-minute walk from the Imadegawa bus stop, Shokoku-ji is a prominent Zen temple ranked second among Kyoto’s prestigious Five Great Zen Temples (Kyoto Gozan). It is also the head temple of the Rinzai sect’s Shokoku-ji school.
Famous attractions like Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) and Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion) are part of the Shokoku-ji school, emphasizing the temple’s significance in Japanese Zen Buddhism. Shokoku-ji is also associated with celebrated artists such as Shuubun and Sesshu, who were monks of this temple.
Shokoku-ji was established in 1392, and its Dharma Hall (Hatto) is the oldest surviving one in Japan. Rebuilt in 1605, the hall has been preserved for centuries and is now designated as an Important Cultural Property.
The ceiling of the Dharma Hall features the masterpiece Naki Ryu (Crying Dragon) by Kano Mitsunobu. When you clap your hands directly under the dragon painting, the sound echoes throughout the hall, resembling the cry of a dragon. This unique experience is a must-try when visiting Shokoku-ji.
Visitor Information for Shokoku-ji Temple
- Address: Imadegawa-dori Karasuma Higashi-iru, Kamigyo Ward, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture
- Map: Google Maps
- Access: 5-minute walk from Imadegawa Station (Karasuma Subway Line) or Imadegawa Bus Stop
- Phone: 075-231-0301
- Closed: Open year-round
- Hours: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Admission Fee:
- Adults & University Students: 800 JPY
- Seniors (65+) & Middle/High School Students: 700 JPY
- Elementary School Students: 400 JPY
- Official Website: Shokoku-ji Temple
Seimei Shrine – A Power Spot Dedicated to Abe no Seimei
Seimei Shrine is a unique Shinto shrine in Kamigyo Ward, Kyoto, dedicated to Abe no Seimei, a legendary onmyoji (master of yin-yang divination). Known for his exceptional skills in astronomy and the mystical ability to control shikigami (spiritual beings), Abe no Seimei is enshrined here, making this a renowned power spot.
The shrine gained popularity through novels and movies featuring Abe no Seimei, and even attracted attention when a gold-medal-winning Olympic skater visited to pray. Many visitors come to seek blessings and experience its spiritual energy.
The shrine’s main hall features the iconic Seimei Kikyo, a five-pointed star symbol associated with protection against evil and misfortune. Next to the main hall stands a peach-shaped statue known as the Yaku-Yoke Momo. In Chinese and onmyodo (the way of yin and yang), peaches are believed to ward off bad luck. Visitors rub the peach to rid themselves of negative energy.
Legend says Abe no Seimei used his spiritual powers to make water spring forth from this well. The water is believed to have purifying qualities. One of the shrine’s special items is the Mizu Kagami Mamori, an amulet said to enhance focus and concentration, making it popular among students and athletes.
Seimei Shrine
- Address: 806 Seimei-cho, Kamigyo Ward, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture
- Map: Google Maps
- Access: 2-minute walk from the Ichijo Modoribashi / Seimei Shrine-mae bus stop
- Phone: 075-441-6460
- Closed: Open year-round
- Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- Admission Fee: Free
- Official Website: Seimei Shrine
We’ve introduced the highlights of Kitano Tenmangu Shrine along with recommended attractions nearby.
As a historic shrine that also serves as a scenic spot showcasing the beauty of each season, it’s a perfect place to enjoy sightseeing in Kyoto.
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