If you have been to Kyoto, you might have heard of or been to Kitano Tanmangū Shrine (北野天満神社). So when you hear of the Kitano Tenman shrine, you might wonder if they are related. And you are right. The Kitano Tenmangu Shrine in Kyoto is the origin of the Kitano Tenman Shrine in Kobe! Besides its history, the shrine is also known for its plum and cherry blossoms!
About Kitano Tenman Shrine
When Taira no Kiyomori (平 清盛) moved the capital from Kyoto to Kobe, the Kitano Tenman Shrine was built. The god of Kitano Tenmangū Shrine is also enshrined here. Because of the shrine’s name, the area around it was subsequently called Kitano.
Taira no Kiyomori was a military leader in the late 12th century who established the first samurai-dominated administrative government in Japan’s history.
Located on top of the hill, it offers a wide view of Kobe city. Because it overlooks the port, it is also known as the Shrine in the Sky (天空の神社).
Kitano Tenman Shrine also has a Koi fish statue that is said to influence the love life of those who pray there.
From late March to early April, the shrine is extra crowded, with people gathering here for the beautiful cherry blossoms covering one side of the shrine.
Kitano Tanman Shrine and the Plum Blossoms
Like other Tanman shrines in Japan, Sugawara no Michizane (菅原 道真) is enshrined at Kitano Tanman Shrine. Hence, many students would pray to achieve academic excellence here. In addition, a small part of the precinct is dedicated to Michizane’s favorite flower, plum blossoms. Between late February and early March, the little red and white flowers not only make the shrine more colorful, but their sweet and elegant scents will make your visit more pleasant!
- The plum grove is open between 9 am and 4 pm.
- Please put 200 yen in the donation box before entering the plum grove.
The plum grove is at the highest point of the entire shrine. So, even if the flower condition isn’t good, you will get a better view of Kobe’s cityscape!
Sugawara no Michizane was a famous scholar in the Heian period (794 – 1185). You can refer to our Dazaifu Tenmangū article for more information about Michizane’s life.
How to Get to Kitano Tanman Shrine
- It is around a 15-minute walk from Sannomiya Station (三宮駅). You can also refer to Kitano Ijikan-gai’s access information as the shrine is just at the far back of the Former Thomas House (風見鶏の館).
- The shrine’s office’s opening hours are between 9 am and 5 pm.
- The shrine’s gate is open from 7:30 am to 5 pm.
Other Interesting Attractions in Kitano Ijinkan-gai
On the way to Kitano Tanman Shrine, you would have walked past a couple of attractions in Kitano Ijinkan-gai. The area, one of Kobe’s top tourist destinations, has a couple more spots worth your time. Not only can you peek into the lifestyles of those European aristocrats two centuries ago, but some houses are where you pose for hilarious photos! It is the part of Kobe where you will have so much fun!
So, refer to our Kitano Ijinkan-gai article for more information!
Discover Other Plum Blossom Spots in Kobe
Kobe City has a couple of more places where you can see the plum blossoms. As most of them are close to a train station, you can easily stop by one of them as you explore other parts of Kobe. If you like hot spring, the renowned hot spring town in Kobe, Arima Onsen, also has two places for you to appreciate the flowers.
So, refer to our article on the Guide to the Plum Blossom Spots in Kobe and start planning!
Explore Other Place and Hidden Gems in Kobe
The port city of Kobe has many other popular attractions and hidden gems that are worthwhile exploring. For example, for those who love nature, the Nunobiki Falls ranked the same as the Kegon Falls in Nikkō National Park, is probably the next spot you want to visit.
The Akashi-Kaikyō Bridge in the photo to the right has bridge climbing tours for those who are looking for some magnificent views and thrill!
To find out more about this amazing city, please refer to our article on Kobe (=ﾟωﾟ)ﾉ.
