Kitano Tenmangu
北野天満宮
The head shrine of Tenmangu, dedicated to Sugawara no Michizane, the god of learning. About 1,500 plum trees and an autumn maple garden draw students and flower viewers alike.
Kitano Tenmangu is the head shrine of roughly 12,000 Tenmangu and Tenjin shrines across Japan. It enshrines Sugawara no Michizane, a scholar of the Heian period, and students often visit to pray for exam success. The main hall is a Momoyama-period building designated a National Treasure. The precinct's plum garden has about 1,500 trees of roughly 50 varieties. On February 25, the Plum Blossom Festival features an outdoor tea ceremony. In autumn, the Godoi Momiji-en (Maple Garden) lets visitors see the autumn foliage and the Godoi, an earthen rampart designated a National Historic Site. Entry to the shrine is free, while the plum and maple gardens cost about 1,000 to 1,200 yen during their seasons, including refreshments. The Tenjin Market flea market held on the 25th of each month is lively. It is about 10 minutes by bus from Kinkaku-ji.
Opening hours
Approx. 07:00–17:00 (extended during light-up period)
Nearby sights
- Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)
- Ryoan-ji
- Daitoku-ji
- Nijo Castle
- Ninna-ji
- Kyoto Imperial Palace
- Kamigamo Shrine
- Nishiki Market