Enshrines: Sugawara no Michizane. Chujodono (son of Michizane), Kisyojo (wife of Michizane).
Established in: 947.

Kitano Tenmangu is the most major Tenman Shrine, besides Dazaifu Tenmangu, in Japan. It enshrines Sugawara no Michizane, the god of wisdom and education. It is one of the most popular shrines in Kyoto. People call this shrine "Kitano no Tenjin-sama."

It was established in 947 by Tajihinoayako, Miwanoyoshitane and Priest Saichin to show the respect of Michizane. In 987, Emperor Ichijo worshiped this shrine and pray for the peace. He entitled "Kitano Tenmangu Tenjin." It was highly respected by the imperial families since then.

There are 12,000 Tenjin Shrines and most of them are brunched from Kitano Tenman-gu.

Ume, Japanese tree, is related tree of Michizane. Kitano Tenman-gu is one of the famous Ume spot in Kyoto. There is plum garden that has 50 kinds 1,200 plum trees. From early February to middle of March, Ume flowers blooms. Also, it is popular Koyo sots as well.

-Syaden- (National Treasure)
It is Gongen style building constructed in 1607 by Toyotomi Hideyori. It shows the feature of building style of Momoyama period.

-Sanko mon Gate-
National important cultural asset. It has a beautiful carving. It was constructed in the same time when Syaden was constructed, as well as Higashi mon and Azekura.

Sugawara no Michizane
Michizane is one of the most famous politician, scholar and poet, in Heian period. He was born in 845. He studied very hard since he was very young, and had a great talent for poem. Because he became a politician from a scholar, and promoted very quickly. In 899, he became Udaijin, the prime minister.

However, in 901, under the conspiracy of Fujiwara clan, he was demotion to Dazaifu, that is located in Kyusyu. Two years later, he died there.

Because of his decent personality and talent for wisdom and academic ability, people today call him "Tenjin-sama," and respect him as the god of wisdom and education.

There are Seven Mysteries in this shrine.

Oidoi
Oidoi is an earthwork constructed by Toyotomi Hideyoshi in 1591. He built this to protect Kyoto. In Kitano Tenmangu, there is ruins of Midoi. It is the only well preserved ruins of Midoi.

Baien, plum garden
Open from early Feb. to end of March.

Momiji-en, maple garden
Open early Nov. to early Dec.

Both garden opens from 10:00 to 16:00.
Admission: 600 yen for adult, 300 yen for kids.

Official Web site.http://kitanotenmangu.or.jp/english/