Mitarai’s Tenmangu Shrine dates back to 1755, when the Tenjin Shrine was built inside the grounds of Manshuji Temple – the oldest structure in this historic harbor town. The shrine was moved to Tenmangu’s current site in 1871 and the main shrine building was constructed in 1917. The famous scholar, poet, and politician of the Heian Period, Sugawara no Michizane, is thought to have used the water from a well at the back of the shrine in a purification ritual. This well (that still exists today) is thought to be the origin of the name Mitarai. Next to the well, the Kanomon Wishing Gate runs underneath the holiest part of the shrine. According to legend, if you make a wish as you pass through the gate, your wish will come true. The shrine pays homage to the god of learning, so many people visit to wish and offer thanks for academic success.
The shrine is flanked by the famous Tenjin cherry blossoms that flower in April.

For more information, contact the Mitarai Rest Station on 0823-67-2278.
*Please note, Mitarai’s historical buildings open to the public are closed on Tuesdays.