Kitano Tenmangu Shrine
Feel the Japanese autumn at the “Odoi Maple Garden” and the night-time illumination
Kitano Tenmangu Shrine is the head shrine of about 12,000 Tenmangu and Tenjin Shrines all around Japan that worship Michizane Sugawara as their deities. Michizane was not only a genius of learning and literature, but also had a deep knowledge of martial arts, culture and the arts. The shrine is widely worshipped as a place to pray for success in entrance examinations, academic achievement, culture and the arts, martial arts, and protection from calamities and misfortune.
Michizane Sugawara (845-903), the deity of Kitano Tenmangu Shrine, was a man of great talent who from an early age studied hard, and composed emotionally rich waka poems, and elegant Chinese poetry. Michizane was a scholar-turned-politician who demonstrated exceptional skills. In 899, he was appointed to an important position in the government, overseeing the nation’s political affairs.
However, due to a plot by the Fujiwara clan, who also held a key position in the government, Michizane was forced to transfer to Dazaifu (a political center in Kyushu) in 901. Only two years later, unfortunately, he died of great grief there. Even after his death, Michizane’s honest character and the misfortunes of his later years were not forgotten by people, and he was eventually revered as “Tenjin-sama,” an existence that has been handed down to the present day. The 25th of every month is the day of the market known as “Tenjin-san”. The approach and the precinct of the shrine is lined with stalls selling a variety of goods from early in the morning until late in the evening.
“Odoi Maple Garden” Opening and Night-time Illumination
During the Momoyama Period (1573-1600), Hideyoshi Toyotomi (1537-1598), who ruled over the whole country, built an earthen mound called Odoi at the boundary between Kyoto’s central area and the outer areas in order to protect the city from flooding.
Part of this mound still remains today in the ground of Kitano Tenmangu Shrine. The area is known as a Historic Site “Odoi Maple Garden” as well as a famous autumn foliage viewing spot. Taking advantage of the structure of the mound, visitors can enjoy superb views of the autumn-colored leaves looking down on the maple trees from the top of the mound as well as looking up from the bottom. The view from the observatory overlooking the shrine grounds, including the vermilion-lacquered Uguisu-bashi Bridge, the stage in the tea ceremony room, and the main shrine hall (National Treasure), is truly spectacular.
During the period when the maple garden is open, “KYOTO NIPPON FESTIVAL,” a cultural event that combines traditional Japanese culture with new entertainment, is also being held. This year’s theme is “Japanese Swords and Autumn Colors.” Enjoy both the beauty of swords and the autumn leaves of Kyoto at the same time.
Maple Garden Opening: From Oct. 28 / 9:00-16:30 (last entry 16:00)
Evening illumination: Nov. 11-Dec. 3 / 9:00-20:00 (last entry 19:30), ¥1,200 (with tea & sweet)
Access: Kyoto City Bus #50, get off at Kitano Tenmangu-mae Stop
www.kitanotenmangu.or.jp