Hofu Tenmangu Shrine: One of Japan's Three Tenman Shrines Enshrining the God of Learning

Hofu Tenmangu Shrine: Japan's First Tenmangu Shrine

Hofu Tenmangu Shrine in Hofu City, Yamaguchi Prefecture, is said to have been founded immediately after Sugawara no Michizane died in 903, and is also called "Japan's First Tenmangu Shrine." It is a prestigious shrine counted among "Japan's Three Tenman Shrines" alongside Kitano Tenmangu in Kyoto and Dazaifu Tenmangu in Fukuoka.

Prayers for Exam Success and Examination Season

As it enshrines Sugawara no Michizane, the god of learning, many students and parents from across Japan visit to pray for exam success during exam season (autumn to spring). Countless votive tablets are dedicated at the votive tablet hanging area, enveloping the entire shrine in an atmosphere of prayer.

Architecture of the Tower Gate and Main Hall

The tower gate built in the Edo period is a national Important Cultural Property. The main hall and worship hall also feature solemn architecture, with the Hofu townscape visible from the shrine grounds at the top of the stone steps along the approach path.

Surrounding Sightseeing in Hofu

"Mori Clan Garden," approximately 10 minutes by car from Hofu Tenmangu Shrine, is a beautiful Japanese garden designated as a national scenic beauty site at the former residence of the Mori family, descendants of Mori Motonari. It is particularly beautiful during the autumn foliage period.

Access

Approximately 15 minutes on foot or 5 minutes by car from JR Hofu Station. Approximately 20 minutes from Shin-Yamaguchi Station by local train.