Kokuhei Shōsha

Hofu Tenmangu

防府天満宮

/ Hōfu Tenmangū

Admission
Free
Goshuin (Temple Seal)
¥300
Access
15 min walk
Hours
6:00–20:00

Overview

Hofu Tenmangu claims to be Japan's first shrine dedicated to Sugawara no Michizane, established in 904 — the year after his death — when his spirit reportedly appeared at this location during his journey to exile. Together with Kitano Tenmangu and Dazaifu Tenmangu, it is counted as one of Japan's Three Great Tenjin shrines.

History

Founding

📜According to tradition
904 [延喜4年]

Claimed to be the first Tenmangu shrine in Japan, established before both Kitano and Dazaifu.

📄
Documented
904

Enshrined Deities

primary Deity

God of scholarship, learning, calligraphy, and poetry; also a deity of thunder and natural calamity (tatarigami origin)

Blessings

Shrine Network

Tenjin / Tenmangu notable_branch

Practical Information

Location Coordinates

34.0481, 131.5697

Physical Address

14-1 Matsuzaki-cho, Hofu, Yamaguchi 747-0029

〒747-0029 山口県防府市松崎町14-1

Access

Hofu Station (JR San'yo Line)

15 min walk

Hours

6:00–20:00

Visitor information last verified: 2026-04-06. Please check the official website for the latest details.

Related Shrines

Frequently Asked Questions

Information provided by Jinja DB Editorial Team

What is Hofu Tenmangu?

Hofu Tenmangu claims to be Japan's first shrine dedicated to Sugawara no Michizane, established in 904 — the year after his death — when his spirit reportedly appeared at this location during his journey to exile. Together with Kitano Tenmangu and Dazaifu Tenmangu, it is counted as one of Japan's Three Great Tenjin shrines.

Where is Hofu Tenmangu located?

Hofu Tenmangu is located in Hofu, Yamaguchi. The full address is: 14-1 Matsuzaki-cho, Hofu, Yamaguchi 747-0029.

What deities are enshrined at Hofu Tenmangu?

The enshrined deities are: Tenjin (Sugawara no Michizane).