Tenjin-sha, located in the town of Choshi, Ibaraki Prefecture, is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the god Sugawara no Michizane, a revered figure in Japanese history and mythology. According to legend, Michizane was a high-ranking official who died on his way back from exile and was enshrined at Tenjin-sha as a symbol of good luck and prosperity for travelers. The shrine is famous for its large stone statue of Sugawara no Michizane and its beautiful gardens. Visitors can also experience the traditional Japanese tea ceremony, which is performed daily throughout the year.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Sugawara no Michizane
- Kami enshrined
- Sugawara no Michizane
- Coordinates
- 35.7166724, 139.9445128
Visitor tip
For visitors interested in history and culture, consider attending one of the shrine's festivals, which take place throughout the year. The most notable is the Tenjin-matsuri festival held on July 27th, where locals dress up in traditional clothing and perform traditional dances to honor Sugawara no Michizane.
Cultural notes
Sugawara no Michizane is often invoked by students and scholars seeking success in their studies. The shrine's architecture reflects the classical Japanese style of the Edo period, with a rectangular main hall and a large torii gate.
Historical note
The current main hall was built in 1717 during the Edo period, but the shrine itself dates back to the 17th century.