A–Z directory

天満神社

Tenman shrine

Japanese Name天満神社
English NameTenman shrine
PrefectureFukuoka
ReligionShinto
Primary DeityTenjin
Coordinates33.3800525, 130.5702688

⛩ AI-enriched content

About this Shrine

Tenman Shrine, located in Fukuoka Prefecture, is one of the oldest Shinto shrines in Japan, dating back to the Heian period (794-1185 CE). Dedicated to Tenjin, the kami of learning and literature, the shrine is renowned for its beautiful architecture and serene gardens. The shrine's primary enshrined deity, Tenjin, was a legendary figure who brought Buddhism to Japan from China during the 8th century.

Cultural Significance

Tenman Shrine is closely associated with the mythology of Sugawara no Michizane, the god of learning and literature. According to legend, Michizane was a poet and diplomat who was unfairly treated by his superiors and eventually became a powerful kami. The shrine's annual Tenjin Matsuri festival (mid-July) commemorates this story and features elaborate processions, traditional music, and offerings.

Enshrined Deities

Tenjin

Location

Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors

Spot an error?

This shrine data is sourced from OpenStreetMap. You can submit a correction or edit it on OpenStreetMap.

Shrine data © OpenStreetMap contributors, under the Open Database License.

Quick Facts

  • Religion: Shinto

⛩ Visitor Tip

To make the most of your visit, take a stroll through the shrine's beautiful gardens during the cherry blossom season (late March to early April) for breathtaking views.

History

Established in 759 CE by Emperor Shomu as part of his effort to promote Buddhism, Tenman Shrine has since been rebuilt and renovated several times.

A-Z Creatures
Learn Japanese

Japanese Culture Network

Japanese Wood Joints

Ancient joinery techniques of Japanese master craftsmen

ShrinePuzzle

Directory of Japanese board games and traditional games

Kohibou

Japanese coffee culture — kissaten, third wave and brewing guides

E2Japan

Explore Japan's landmarks, shrines and hidden locations

The 725 Club

SNES and Super Famicom collection tracker

Spaceship Adventures

Hoshi no Isan — a Japanese-aesthetic space RPG in development

Japan In Pixels

A pixel art map of Japanese culture — coming 2027

CSSKitsune

Japanese-aesthetic design tokens & AI-ready UI prompts

Shinto Wisdom app icon
Free App · No Ads · Offline

Shinto Wisdom Daily Practice

by 10k Game Studio

Every day, one teaching. One moment of stillness.
Kanji, meaning, and a quiet reflection — rooted in the philosophy behind Japan's forests, seasons, and sacred silences.

結び Musubi 清め Harae 自然 Shizen 間 Ma 誠 Makoto + 45 more
Get it on Google Play

Content Warning: This website explores Japanese folklore and mythological beings—including yokai, oni, and other supernatural entities—that may be frightening to younger audiences or sensitive viewers. All material is presented for educational and cultural appreciation only. Viewer discretion is advised.

Parents and guardians are encouraged to preview content before sharing it with children. By continuing to use JapaneseMythicalCreatures.com, you acknowledge and accept this advisory.

Copyright © 2026 Japanese Mythical Creatures • All Rights Reserved.