Kneeling before the sacred grounds of Tsunashiki Tenmangu Shrine, a sense of reverence washes over you. This humble shrine, tucked away in Hakata’s quiet alleys, marks a pivotal moment in the journey of Tenjin-sama. Tsunashiki Tenmangu Shrine commemorates Sugawara no Michizane’s first steps on Kyushu soil. Imagine the scene: the year is 901. A weary Michizane, unjustly exiled from Kyoto, arrives in Hakata’s harbor. Local fishermen, witnessing his plight, offer ropes from their boats to create a makeshift resting place for the esteemed scholar. This simple act of kindness echoes in the shrine’s very name. “Tsunashiki” translates to “rope-laying,” a tribute to the fishermen’s compassion. The surrounding area, known as “Tsunaba,” also carries this historical resonance. Tenjin-sama, deified as the god of learning, began his Kyushu journey right here. He would eventually reach Dazaifu, where the grand Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine now stands as a testament to his legacy. But here, at Tsunashiki Tenmangu Shrine, we glimpse the human side of this revered figure. We see the man behind the myth, the scholar seeking refuge, the poet finding solace in the kindness of strangers. This unassuming shrine serves as a poignant reminder of Tenjin-sama’s arduous journey and the enduring spirit of compassion.
Ohki Elementary School
Nestled within Fukuoka City is Ohki Elementary School. It’s a place brimming with the energy of young learners. Ohki Elementary