八尾天満宮

“Eight” represents prosperity at Yao Tenmangu Shrine. Here at Yao Tenmangu Shrine, the number eight holds a special significance. The shrine’s name, 八尾 (Yao), incorporates the character for eight. This has led to a unique tradition. Every year, on the 7th and 8th of January, the shrine hosts the “Yao no Hachi Nichi Matsuri” (Eight Day Festival of Yao). It started as a small event. But it now draws crowds seeking blessings for business prosperity and good fortune. The shrine’s deity is Michizane Sugawara. He is revered as the god of learning. He was adopted by the Fujiwara family during the Heian period. It became their local guardian deity. Over time, Yao Tenmangu Shrine became associated with warding off evil spirits and ensuring household safety. The current shrine building dates back to a renovation in 1910. This was during the reign of Emperor Meiji. It was a time of modernization and change in Japan. Yet, Yao Tenmangu Shrine maintained its traditional rituals. One such ritual is the Setsubun festival held on February 3rd. During Setsubun, red and blue demons symbolize misfortune and illness. A “demon expeller” chases these demons out of the shrine grounds. This is to protect the community from harm in the coming year. The shrine’s parishioners come from five neighborhoods within Yao city. This emphasizes its role as a local community hub. So, as you stand before Yao Tenmangu Shrine, take a moment to appreciate the blend of history and tradition. Think about the significance of “eight” and the protective spirit of this beloved shrine.