One fateful day, an ox stopped, refusing to move. This marked the final resting place of Sugawara no Michizane, a scholar and poet. Here at Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine, his spirit lives on, deified as Tenjin, the god of learning. Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine is more than just a place of worship. It’s a vibrant testament to a man whose love of learning and plum blossoms continues to inspire. Built in 905, just two years after Michizane’s death, the shrine welcomes millions each year. Students flock here, seeking Tenjin’s blessing for academic success. The shrine grounds are a breathtaking spectacle, especially during the plum blossom season. Over 6,000 plum trees, of 167 varieties, explode in a symphony of color. One tree, the Tobiume, holds a special legend. It’s said to have flown from Kyoto to Dazaifu, mirroring Michizane’s own journey into exile. Even the treats sold here, umegae mochi, rice cakes stamped with plum blossoms, whisper tales of Michizane. They echo a story of a caretaker who offered him these treats. The shrine’s main hall, a designated Important Cultural Property, underwent renovations starting in 2023. This marked the first major renovation in 124 years. A temporary hall, designed by Sou Fujimoto, stands in its place. Its roof, a unique garden, hosts 46 plant species. Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine stands as a sanctuary of knowledge, art, and nature. It whispers the story of a remarkable man, a vengeful god, and the enduring power of plum blossoms.
Ohki Elementary School
Nestled within Fukuoka City is Ohki Elementary School. It’s a place brimming with the energy of young learners. Ohki Elementary