Kitano Tenmangū

What it is

• A Shinto shrine founded in 947 by order of the Imperial Court.
• The head of approximately 12,000 Tenmangu shrines across Japan.
• Dedicated to Sugawara no Michizane, the deity of learning.
• The current main hall was rebuilt by Toyotomi Hideyori in 1607.

What to see

• The main hall and prayer hall are designated National Treasures.
• About 1,500 plum trees of 50 different species bloom on the grounds.
• Numerous statues of cows, which are considered sacred messengers of the deity.
• The Odui earthen fortification, which is a National Historic Site.

When to go

• The Baikasai plum blossom festival is held annually on February 25.

Getting there

• The shrine is located directly at the Kitano Tenmangu-mae bus stop.

Notes written by Japan Gems from facts in Japanese Wikipedia.