Tenjin Shrine is dedicated to Sugawara no Michizane, the deified spirit of a 9th-century scholar, poet, and politician who became the patron deity of learning and scholarship. These shrines are particularly popular among students and parents seeking academic success and are recognizable by their plum blossom motifs and ox statues.
- Denomination
- Tenjin
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Sugawara no Michizane
- Kami enshrined
- Sugawara no Michizane
- Coordinates
- 35.259548, 136.8091755
Visitor tip
Look for the ox statues around the shrine grounds and touch them while making a wish for academic success.
Cultural notes
Tenjin shrines are closely associated with plum blossoms, which were Michizane's favorite flower, and feature ox statues that visitors often touch for good luck in studies. The shrines are especially busy during exam seasons when students come to pray for academic success.