Kitano Tenman Gu Shrine

One of Kyoto’s most beautiful shrines which is popular with students praying for success on exams. It’s also home to one of Kyoto’s best flea markets.

[Stone bull at Kitano Tenmangu — image © Jeffrey Friedl]

Kitano-Tenman-gu Shrine, which sits on the edge of the picturesque Kamishichiken Geisha District, is a large Shinto shrine known to be efficacious in boosting exam scores, which is why students flock here before exams to rub one of the lucky stone cows found in front of the main hall of the shrine. The shrine is also famous for its plum arbor that bursts into bloom in early March. But, for most tourists, the premier reason to visit is to shop at the wonderful Tenjin-san Market, held on the morning of the 25th of each month. There are are always a few treasures to be found among the trinkets and bric-a-brac.

English address:
Bakuro-cho, Kamigyo-ku

Japanese address:
上京区馬喰町

Opening hours:
5am-6pm April-October
5.30am-5.30pm November-March

Admission:
Free

Non-smoking area: Yes

Nearest Transport:
In front of Kitano-Tenmangu-mae Bus Stop, Kyoto City Bus 50 or 101 from Kyoto Station

Telephone: 461-0005

Website: Official Website (English)

Where Is This Place Located?

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Near To Here:
Kitano-Tenman-gu Shrine is located in Northwest Kyoto. See our complete list of things to do in Northwest Kyoto, including places to eat, nightlife and places to stay.

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