Kitano Tenmangu Shrine
Kitano Tenmangu Shrine (–k–ì“V–ž‹{, Kitano Tenmangū) is one of the most important of several hundred shrines across Japan that are dedicated to Sugawara Michizane, a scholar and politician who was unfairly exiled by his political rivals. A number of disasters were attributed to Michizane's vengeful spirit after his death in exile, and these shrines were built to appease him.
Sugawara Michizane is associated with Tenjin, the kami ("Shinto god") of education. Consequently, many students visit Kitano Tenmangu to pray for success in their studies, and the shrine can become especially crowded with students during exam seasons.
Michizane loved plum trees, and one tree, called tobiume or flying plum tree, is said to have followed him from Kyoto to his exile in Kyushu. Because of this, a plum tree can always be found standing in front of the offering hall of Tenmangu shrines.
In addition to the tobiume tree, Kitano Tenmangu features an entire grove of nearly 2000 plum trees, which bloom from February to March. The shrine hosts a special tea ceremony, called Baikasai, in this plum grove every February 25, attended by maiko and geiko of the nearby Kamishichiken geiko district.
Kitano Tenmangu is also a popular autumn color spot, as the shrine open its garden to the public during the peak of the autumn leaf season from late October to early December. Hundreds of maple trees line the garden's river and are lit up in the evenings.
Last but not least, a flea market is held on the shrine grounds and surrounding streets on the 25th of every month. Hundreds of vendors selling plants, antiques, tools, toys and crafts are joined by many food stands selling festival food such as yakisoba, karaage and takoyaki.
Getting there and around
Kitano Tenmangu Shrine can be reached directly by Kyoto City Bus number 50 from Kyoto Station (230 yen, 30 minutes). An indirect but perhaps quicker route during rush hours is to take the Karasuma Subway Line to Imadegawa Station and catch bus 203 to the shrine. In either case get off at the Kitano Tenmangu-mae bus stop.
Hours and Fees
Kitano Tenmangu Shrine
Hours
5:30 to 17:30 (October to March)
Closed
Admission
Flea Market
Hours
Plum Grove
Hours
Admission
Maple Tree Garden
Hours
Admission
Questions? Ask in our forum.
Links and Resources
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Arashiyama HanaikadaA little, superior ryokan right near Togetsukyo Bridge in Arashiyama. Free transfer from JR station. Private bath and open-air baths available. 5min walk to the Bamboo Groves.View siteSponsored
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Yado KiramachiYado Kiramachi offers accommodation set 600 metres from the centre of Kyoto and provides a garden and a terrace. The air-conditioned accommodation is 600 metres from Kyoto Shigaku Kaikan Conference Hall. The ryokan features family rooms. Certain units in the ryokan have private entrance and are equipped with desk and wardrobe. With a private bathroom, units at the ryokan also have free WiFi, while selected rooms will provide you with a balcony. At the ryokan, some units are soundproof. A bar can be found on-site. Kyoto International Manga Museum is 1.3 km from the ryokan, while Gion Shijo Station is 1.6 km away. The nearest airport is Itami Airport, 45 km from Yado Kiramachi.View on Booking.com
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Guesthouse HANA NishijinGuesthouse HANA Kyoto is located in Kyoto, 300 metres from Kitano Tenmangu and 1.2 km from Kinkaku-ji Temple. A simple complimentary breakfast service is provided for guests. Bathroom facilities are shared. Guesthouse HANA Kyoto features free WiFi throughout the property. There is a shared kitchen and a common area with a TV at the property. Nijo Castle is 2.1 km from Guesthouse HANA Kyoto, while Imperial Palace is 2.3 km from the property. The nearest airport is Osaka Itami Airport, 39 km from Guesthouse HANA Kyoto.View on Booking.com
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