⛩️ Kameido Tenjin Shrine (亀戸天神社)

Kameido Tenjin Shrine is dedicated to Sugawara no Michizane, the god of learning, and is one of Tokyo's "Top Ten Shrines." According to legend, the shrine originated from Sugawara no Michizane's descendant, Sugawara Otori Nobuyuki, who dedicated an ancestral statue here. Later, in 1662, the shrine was constructed modeled after the Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine in Kyushu, featuring a main hall, a corridor, a Shinji pond, and a taiko bridge, forming the appearance we see today. As the Kanto branch of Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine, Kameido Tenjin Shrine is also referred to as "Higashi Dazaifu Tenmangu" or "Kameido Dazaifu Tenmangu." Spanning across the Shinji pond are three vermilion wooden bridges: the male bridge representing the past, the flat bridge indicating the present, and the female bridge symbolizing the future. It is said that crossing these wooden bridges purifies the spirit. Kameido Tenjin Shrine is also renowned as the "Flower Shrine," where visitors can enjoy diverse floral displays throughout the seasons, transforming the shrine into a floral wonderland. More than 300 plum trees favored by Sugawara no Michizane are planted within the grounds, and the "Plum Blossom Festival" is held in February and March. In late April, wisteria blossoms fill the area, and the view from the taiko bridge overlooking the wisteria trellis has become a scenic attraction for many visitors. Additionally, the "Chrysanthemum Festival" is held every October, along with various flower-viewing events. Furthermore, the sacred cow statue is a must-see. Legend has it that touching the head of the sacred cow will grant people wisdom and intelligence. Within the shrine grounds, there are also four small shrines, making it a perfect place to stroll and explore leisurely.

The shrine dedicated to the god of scholarship, Sugawara no Michizane. The grounds are constructed to resemble the Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine in Kyushu. Known as the "Flower God," it holds annual flower viewing events such as the Plum Blossom Festival, Wisteria Festival, and Chrysanthemum Festival.