Jan 16, 2019 - 1 min read

Glimpses of Dazaifu Tenmangū

A Fukuoka shrine dedicated to all things education

By Kim Bergström

Japan Travel Staff

The shrine is a very popular tourist spot

Rub the ox statue, and it's said you'll gain wisdom

Crowds flock to this temple - particularly students!

The crowds include a large number of tourists

Bright teal colored omikuji - fortune telling strips of paper

The ema here (wooden plaques to write hopes and wishes on) are a bright teal color

The lead up to the shrine has many different stores, selling trinkets and tasty eats

There's an interestingly designed Starbucks on the shopping street, as well as some mom-and-pop shops

Notice

The shrine's honden (main hall) will undergo major renovation from May 2023 to 2026. During this period, the shrine will set up a unique temporary hall in front of the honden. This one-story building will feature trees and grass on the roof to harmonize with the encircling environment.

Latest on Dazaifu Tenmangu

Fukuoka's Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine is built on the gravesite of Sugawara no Michizane, who was a talented scholar and poet. As a result of this, the shrine has become a spot for students to pray for success with their studies and exams. One thing I noticed on my visit was the large number of school groups that were visiting the site for field trips.

The walk up to the shrine is along a shopping street that offers up plenty of souvenirs and stores selling tasty eats and drinks. If you need a caffeine fix, there's also a uniquely designed Starbucks, or some mom-and-pop style tea houses to enjoy.

Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine is located a short walk from Dazaifu Station on the Nishitetsu Dazaifu Line.

From central Fukuoka, take the Nishitetsu Tenjin-Omuta Line from Nishitetsu-Fukuoka (Tenjin) Station to Nishitetsu Futsukaichi Station. Once you're there, transfer to the Nishitetsu Dazaifu Line and get off at Dazaifu.

Buses are also available from the Hakata Bus Terminal direct to Dazaifu.

If you are visiting via private vehicle, parking is available at the site.