Kitano Tenmangu Shrine (北野天満宮)

Kitano Tenmangu Shrine can be entered through either the North Gate or the East Gate (Important Cultural Property). It is best to visit Kitano Tenmangu Shrine during the plum blossom season or the season of autumn leaves.

Kitano Tenmangu Shrine, famous as Tenjin-san, is the general shrine of Tenmangu or Tenjin-sha throughout Japan. The shrine dates back to 947 and enshrines the well-known Sugawara no Michizane.

The first thing that catches the eye is the Sankomon Gate. It was built in the Momoyama period (1573-1600). And it is an important cultural property. Emperor Gosei contributed the plaque with characters “Tenmangu” on the gate.

And the main hall is a national treasure.

Shrine’s Official WEB site

Within the grounds of the Shrine, there are also the remains of the Odoi. Toyotomi Hideyoshi constructed Odoi in 1591 as part of the urban renewal of Kyoto after a long warfare. And also it was a fortification to protect the city from incoming enemies and as a levee to protect the city from the flooding of the Kamo River. The Odoi was a large earthen mound that encompassed a large area, including the Imperial Palace and Nijo Castle. This area is the only part of the palace where you can see a culvert made of hewn stone (drainage).

Nearby spots from Kitano Tenmangu

Hirano Jinja Shrine is famous for cherry blossoms.

Hirano Jinja Shrine (平野神社)

The Daihouonji Temple, also known as Senbon Shakado, has a national treasure building and several important cultural properties. It is only 10-minute walk.

Daihouonji Temple (大報恩寺)-Senbon Shakado