Hofu Tenmangu Shrine

Built in 904 AD, Hofu Tenmangu Shrine holds the distinction of being Japan's first Tenmangu shrine and is counted among the three great Tenjin shrines in Japan alongside Kitano Tenmangu in Kyoto and Dazaifu Tenmangu in Fukuoka. The shrine is dedicated to Sugawara no Michizane, a revered Heian-period scholar who became deified as the god of learning and academic success.

Hofu Tenmangu is the oldest of the 12,000 Tenjin shrines in Japan, making it a site of immense historical significance. The shrine was established when Sugawara no Michizane passed through Hofu on his way to exile in Kyushu, where he died in 903 AD. The approach to the main hall features exactly 57 stone steps, symbolizing Michizane's age of 57 when he reached Hofu.

The shrine serves as a major pilgrimage destination for students and families seeking academic success and educational achievements. Visitors come throughout the year hoping to gain blessings for scholastic endeavors. Key attractions include an 800-year-old camphor tree, the oldest on the shrine grounds, and sacred cow statues that worshippers touch for good fortune. The shrine also houses a museum displaying over 600 votive offerings, including the important Picture Scroll Showing the Origin of Matsuzaki Tenjin, a set of six illustrated scrolls with a total length of 75 meters dating from 1331.

Notable annual events include the Plum Blossom Festival in February, celebrating the connection between Michizane and plum trees, and the Goshinko festival in November, known as one of the roughest festivals in western Japan. The Tanabata Festival on July 7 features bamboo decorated with streamers and wishes lining the shrine pathways.

Shrine admission is free, though the history museum charges 800 yen for adults (600 yen for groups of 20 or more) with free admission for high school students and younger. The traditional teahouse Hoshoan requires a separate admission fee that includes matcha green tea and seasonal Japanese sweets. The shrine is accessible by train to Hofu Station, followed by a short bus ride or taxi to the shrine grounds. Free parking is available for visitors arriving by car.