Egara Tenjin Shrine

According to the shrine’s own records, it was founded in 1104. It enshrines Sugawara no Michizane, revered in Japan as the god of learning. Minamoto no Yoritomo is said to have built its hall to guard the unlucky northeast direction of his shogunate.

Highlights

• The vermilion main hall, moved here in the Edo period from the Wakamiya shrine of Tsurugaoka Hachimangu. It is an Important Cultural Property of Japan.
• Red and white plum trees that bloom on either side of the hall during exam season.
• A memorial to the paintbrush built by manga artists, decorated with reliefs of kappa drawn by many of them, and the “Kappa Brush Mound” that holds the brushes of the artist Shimizu Kon.

For travelers at Wakaremichi

Turn north at Wakaremichi and this is the first step on the Valley Path. For anyone who draws, it is a rather special place.

Opening hours, fees and closing days may change. Please check official information before you go.