Arahira Tenjin

Arahira Tenjin, also called Sugawara Shrine, sits on a small rocky islet known as Tenjin Island that juts into Kinko Bay in Kanoya City, Kagoshima. Said to have been founded in the Tenbun era between 1532 and 1555, it enshrines Sugawara no Michizane, known as the god of learning. The contrast of the clear sea, the red gate and the white sand is beautiful, and at high tide the sandbar of the approach sinks beneath the water, making the shrine appear to float on the sea, a fantastical and scenic power spot.

Highlights

- The red gate standing on Tenjin Island as it juts into the sea. Its contrast with the blue water is splendid. - The dreamlike sight of the shrine appearing to float on the water at high tide. - The hall of worship atop the rocky hill. You climb a steep stairway with the help of a rope to pay your respects. - A shrine enshrining the god of learning Sugawara no Michizane, drawing many who pray for exam success.

Enjoying the Seasons

In summer the contrast of the clear blue sea and the white sand is at its most vivid. From autumn into winter the air clears and you can see all the way to the mountains on the far shore. At dawn and dusk the color of the sea changes with the angle of the light, a photogenic time of day. The way the scenery shifts with the tides is also part of the charm.

Access and Basic Information

- Location: 4014 Tenjin-cho, Kanoya City, Kagoshima - By car: about 35 minutes from the Kasanohara interchange on the Higashi Kyushu Expressway, parking available, free - At high tide during spring tides the sandbar sinks and the approach may not be crossable

A Quick Tip

If you plan to cross to the hall of worship, check a tide table in advance for the low tide times. The stairway on the rock is steep, so use the rope firmly and watch your footing. Aim for high tide to see it float on the sea and low tide to worship, choosing the time according to your purpose.