Hofu Tenmangu Shrine

Hofu Tenmangu Shrine is located in Hofu City, Yamaguchi Prefecture. Founded in 904 (Heian period), it is said to be the first Tenmangu shrine established in Japan. It enshrines Sugawara no Michizane, along with Ame no Hohi no Mikoto, Takehi Tori no Mikoto, and Nomi no Sukune. Together with Kitano Tenmangu in Kyoto and Dazaifu Tenmangu in Fukuoka, Hofu Tenmangu is known as one of Japan’s Three Great Tenjin Shrines and attracts worshippers from all over the country. The main hall is designated as a Tangible Cultural Property of Japan. “Daisenbo,” where Hirobumi Ito is said to have lived and studied in his youth, is a designated historic site of Yamaguchi Prefecture. “Shunpu-ro” is designated as a Registered Tangible Cultural Property, and the Treasure Hall preserves more than 600 cultural artifacts. The grounds are also home to about 1,100 plum trees, and around mid-February they reach their best season, filling the area with the fragrance of plum blossoms. Access to Hofu Tenmangu: by public transportation, it’s about a 20-minute walk from JR Sanyo Main Line “Hofu Station,” or take a Bocho Kotsu bus (Hofu Station-mae to Amidaji) and get off at “Hofu Tenmangu-mae,” right nearby.