Dazaifu Tenmangu
4 Chome-7-1 Saifu St., Fukuoka, Japan, 818-0117
On the southeastern outskirts of Fukuoka City, the ancient Dazaifu Tenmangu is one of Japan’s most important Shinto shrines. Visitors can stroll through the beautiful grounds filled with cypress trees, visit several shrine buildings, see a classical dance or art performance (often on the schedule), and learn more about Shinto at the two on-site museums.
The basics
Dazaifu Tenmangu is dedicated to a Heian-period (8th–12th-century) politician and scholar, Sugawara Michizane, whom devotees associate with the Shinto deity of education. It’s a very popular site with local visitors, but travelers from any culture can appreciate this beautiful shrine complex, an atmospheric place to learn more about Japanese spiritual traditions with ancient roots.
You can visit independently or on a private tour of the Fukuoka area, which may include attractions such as Yanagawa town, Fukuoka Castle, and the Kyushu National Museum.
Things to know before you go
The main hall is undergoing major renovations until around 2026, but has been replaced by a temporary structure, and there’s plenty more to see in the shrine complex.
Entrance to the shrine is free.
Allow at least half a day for a visit, or a full day if you want to see the museums, too.
How to get there
Dazaifu Tenmangu is a 5-minute walk east of Dazaifu Station, at the end of the Nishi-Nippon Railroad’s Nishitetsu–Dazaifu Line. The trip takes about 30 minutes from central Fukuoka’s Nishitetsu Fukuoka (Tenjin) Station; first take the Tenjin–Omuta Line, then change to the Nishitetsu–Dazaifu Line at Nishitetsu–Futsukaichi Station. If you’re driving, note that paid parking around the shrine is very limited.
When to get there
The shrine is open every day from early morning until early evening, with closing times varying by season. Different parts of the complex—such as the Dazaifu Tenmangu Museum and the Kanko Historical Museum—have different opening hours, shut earlier than the shrine, and are closed on certain days of the week. The plum trees on the grounds bloom between late January and early March, and are very beautiful.
Visit the Kyushu National Museum
A walkway from the southeastern end of the shrine grounds connects directly to the Kyushu National Museum. The mirrored, domed building provides a striking modern contrast to the historical buildings of the shrine. Inside, you’ll find a large collection of ceramics from Kyushu, as well as other artistic treasures. It’s a great addition to a day trip to Dazaifu Tenmangu.
Travel Like an Expert with AAA and Trip Canvas
Get Ideas from the Pros
As one of the largest travel agencies in North America, we have a wealth of recommendations to share! Browse our articles and videos for inspiration, or dive right in with preplanned AAA Road Trips, cruises and vacation tours.
Build and Research Your Options
Save and organize every aspect of your trip including cruises, hotels, activities, transportation and more. Book hotels confidently using our AAA Diamond Designations and verified reviews.
Book Everything in One Place
From cruises to day tours, buy all parts of your vacation in one transaction, or work with our nationwide network of AAA Travel Agents to secure the trip of your dreams!