Egara Tenjinsha

Set in a quiet residential area of Kamakura, Egara Tenjinsha is a shrine that enshrines Sugawara no Michizane, the god of learning. It is a venerable old shrine counted among the three oldest Tenjin shrines of Japan, along with Dazaifu Tenmangu in Fukuoka and Kitano Tenmangu in Kyoto. So strong is its reputation for blessings of learning that the hall is covered with votive tablets praying for exam success. Despite being close to Tsurugaoka Hachimangu, outside exam season it sees few visitors, making it a hidden gem for a quiet visit. It is also said to grant blessings for the arts and for warding off misfortune, drawing faith from creative people.

Highlights

- One of the three oldest Tenjin shrines of Japan, enshrining the god of learning Sugawara no Michizane - The sacred ginkgo tree said to be about 900 years old - The Brush Mound lined with reliefs of kappa drawn by manga artists

Enjoying the Seasons

In early spring, red and white plum blossoms bloom, and the scent of plum tied to Sugawara no Michizane drifts through the grounds. In autumn the sacred ginkgo turns golden, and its fluttering leaves are magnificent. Avoiding the exam season, you can pray slowly in a tranquil setting throughout the four seasons.

Access and Basic Information

- Location: 74 Nikaido, Kamakura City, Kanagawa Prefecture - Access: About 20 minutes on foot from JR Kamakura Station, or about 3 minutes on foot from the Tenjin-mae bus stop - Hours: About 8:30 to 16:30 - Admission: Free

A Quick Tip

Visiting alongside Tsurugaoka Hachimangu and Kamakuragu makes for a historic Kamakura stroll. It is recommended not only for exam-pass prayers but also for those wishing to improve in creative work and the arts. The early-spring plums and the autumn ginkgo are photogenic, so aiming for those times is a fine idea.