📍 Dazaifu, Fukuoka
Considered the head shrine of all Tenmangu shrines in Japan, it enshrines Sugawara no Michizane, revered as the deity of learning, culture and the arts. Fukuoka Prefecture's official tourism site introduces it as a must-visit power spot in Fukuoka.
According to tradition, a mausoleum shrine was first built over the grave of Sugawara no Michizane, who ended his life in Dazaifu, and the shrine buildings were later constructed by imperial order. The current main hall, built in the five-bay nagare-zukuri style, is designated a national Important Cultural Property.
The hall said to stand over Michizane's grave, a national Important Cultural Property.
A sacred plum tree that, according to legend, flew from the capital overnight out of longing for Michizane. It stands right beside the main hall.
The three bridges over the pond, shaped like the character for "heart" (心), are said to represent the past, present and future, and crossing them is said to purify body and mind.
Statues of oxen, regarded as messengers of the deity. There is a belief that stroking an ox's head grants wisdom.
Known as the shrine of the deity of learning, culture and the arts, it draws many visitors who pray for success in entrance exams or for protection from misfortune.
Based on information from the shrine or temple and official tourism sites.
Goshuin (shrine stamps) bearing seals such as the sacred plum tree are offered at the amulet counters to the left and right of the main hall.
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🛕 TempleTohoku ・ Yamagata, Yamagata
An ancient Tendai Buddhist temple with halls dotted across a steep rocky mountain, affectionately known as "Yamadera" (Mountain Temple). Yamagata Prefecture's official tourism site lists it first among places to visit on a spiritual journey, and a superb view awaits at the top of its 1,015 stone steps.
⛩️ ShrineChubu & Hokuriku ・ Nagano, Nagano
A shrine made up of five shrines, Okusha, Chusha, Hokosha, Kuzuryusha and Hinomikosha, scattered at the foot of the sacred Mount Togakushi. Connected to the Ama-no-Iwato myth, it is introduced on the official tourism sites of Nagano City and Nagano Prefecture as "a power spot of myth and faith." The "Five Shrines Pilgrimage," walking along cedar-lined approaches to visit all five, is well known.
⛩️ ShrineKyushu ・ Usa, Oita
Regarded as the head shrine of all Hachiman shrines in Japan, this is Oita Prefecture's most representative shrine. Oita Prefecture's official tourism site introduces it as a power spot, and spots associated with blessings are scattered across its spacious grounds.
⛩️ ShrineKyushu ・ Fukutsu, Fukuoka
A shrine in Fukutsu, famous across Japan for the "Path of Light," when the setting sun sinks into the sea straight ahead of the approach. Fukuoka Prefecture's official tourism site introduces it as a Fukuoka power spot that invites happiness.
⛩️ ShrineKyushu ・ Takachiho, Nishiusuki District, Miyazaki
This shrine is set in the landscape of the Ama-no-Iwato myth, and its object of worship is the Ama-no-Iwato, the cave where the sun goddess Amaterasu is said to have hidden herself. Miyazaki Prefecture's tourism site introduces it as one of Japan's leading power spots, and the Amano-Yasugawara cave along the Iwato River is also a popular stop.
⛰️ NatureKyushu ・ Takachiho, Nishiusuki District, Miyazaki
A gorge lined with cliffs of columnar basalt, representative of Takachiho, the land of myths. Takachiho Town's official website introduces Manai Falls, which plunges into the gorge, as a power spot.
⛩️ ShrineKyushu ・ Kirishima, Kagoshima
A shrine with beautiful vermilion buildings at the foot of the Kirishima Mountains, where the myth of the descent of the grandson of the sun goddess (Tenson Korin) is told. Kagoshima Prefecture's official tourism site introduces it as "one of the leading power spots in Kirishima."
History and what each place is known for are based on the shrine or temple’s official site and on local government and tourism association information. Opening hours, fees and limited-time items are not listed — please check the official site before you go.
