“Flower Garden” of Kitano Tenmangu Shrine Open to the Public
Kitano Tenmangu Shrine, established in 947, is the headquarters shrine of all of the 12,000 Tenmangu shrines in Japan, dedicated to Michizane Sugawara, the Heian-period scholar and academic genius. Referred to as “Tenjinsama of Kitano region” since olden times, the shrine has been highly revered. Michizane had a special love for plum blossoms.
The plum garden at Kitano Tenmangu Shrine is considered one of the most scenic spots in the country, attracting numerous visitors. Within the sacred precincts, there are around 50 different varieties totaling approx. 1,500 plum trees. Some start blooming as early as January, and from early February to late March, the entire precinct is enveloped in the rich fragrance of plum blossoms at their peak.
During the Edo period (1603-1868), a gifted literati named Sadatoku Matsunaga (1571-1653) who excelled in composing poems, designed three prominent gardens in Kyoto: Myoman-ji Temple for the “Snow Garden” with a snowy landscape as a backdrop. Kiyomizu Temple for its “Moon Garden” known for moon-viewing, and Kitano Tenmangu Shrine for the “Flower Garden” for plum blossom appreciation. These were collectively known as the “Three Graceful Garden of Snow, Moon and Flower.” In 2022, one of these, the Flower Garden at Kitano Tenmangu Shrine, was restored. Enjoy the beauty of the plum blossoms in the meticulously arranged plum garden.
Kitano Tenmangu’s Special Plum Garden Opening
Feb. 1 - late March; 9:00 to16:00
Evening illumination: Every weekend (Fri., Sat., Sun.) from Feb. 23 to Mar.17; Sunset to 20:00
Admission: ¥1,200 with plum tea and sweets