🗺️ Daihōfu Tenmangū防府天満宮

Hōfu Tenmangū was built in the 4th year of Engi (904) and is the first Tenmangū shrine in Japan, dedicated to Sugawara no Michizane, who is revered as the god of learning. During the Heian period, Sugawara no Michizane earned the deep trust of the emperor through his honest political style and was appointed as the Minister of the Right at the age of 55. However, he was falsely accused by the powerful Fujiwara clan at that time. In the 4th year of Chōtai (901), Sugawara no Michizane was exiled to Dazaifu in Kyushu, and it is said that he passed through the then Suō Province (Yamaguchi Prefecture) on his way west. There are approximately 12,000 shrines across the country dedicated to Sugawara no Michizane, and Hōfu Tenmangū was known as the first Tenmangū shrine in Japan at the time of its construction. Along with Kitano Tenmangū in Kyoto and Dazaifu Tenmangū in Fukuoka, it is collectively referred to as the "Three Great Tenjin Shrines of Japan." The types of prayers offered range widely from seeking success in examinations and academic achievements to household safety, health, longevity, and prosperous business, attracting numerous worshippers daily. The main hall features a stable style characteristic of the Heian period, and most of the buildings within the grounds are designated as registered tangible cultural properties of the country, as well as prefectural tangible cultural properties and historical sites.

The three major deities of Japan, Sugawara no Michizane, who is worshipped as the god of scholarship. People pray for success in exams and academic achievements. By touching the cow statue associated with Sugawara no Michizane, known as the "Dream-fulfilling Cow," one can make their wishes come true. Every February, there is an interesting event called "Ushi-tai Shinji," where participants can win a real cow.