Feeling overwhelmed by too much shopping in Tenjinbashisuji? Duck out to Osaka Tenmangu Shrine in the Kita district nearby - it’s an oasis of calm in the middle of a frantic, busy city. If you can, time your visit to coincide with the fabulous Tenjin Matsuri festival.
Osaka Tenmangu Shrine is emblematic of what religious institutions in Japanese cities do so well. Like many other shrines, it’s a beautifully tranquil, contemplative space in the middle of urban busyness, and makes a wonderful respite from all the shopping you’re likely to do in nearby Tenjinbashisuji.
Osaka Tenmangu Shrine - image © Florentyna Leow
Founded in the 10th century, Osaka Tenmangu enshrines Sugawara no Michizane, the deity of scholarship. Like other similar shrines across the country, it’s a popular spot for students to pray for good results in their exams or studies. The buildings themselves don’t date back to the 10th century as the shrine was razed by fire several times since its founding; the main hall and gate at present date back to 1845.
Osaka Tenmangu Shrine - image © Florentyna Leow
If you happen to be visiting Osaka in July, don’t miss the shrine’s Tenjin Matsuri festival on 24 and 25 July. It ranks alongside Tokyo’s Kanda Matsuri and Kyoto’s Gion Matsuri as one of Japan’s great festivals. Locals and visitors alike gather in the tens of thousands just to watch the procession and fireworks display on the two days. It’s one of the most spectacular sights you’ll see in Osaka city.
English name:
Osaka Temmangu Shrine
Japanese name:
大阪天満宮
English address:
2-1-8 Tenjinbashi, Kita-ku, Osaka-shi, 530-0041
Japanese address:
〒530-0041 大阪市北区天神橋2-1-8
Opening hours:
9am-5pm
Admission:
free
Nearest Transport:
Train: 4-minute walk from exit 3 of Osakatemmangu Station on the JR Tozai Line.
Subway: 4-minute walk from exit 4-B of Minami-morimachi Station on the Osaka Metro Tanimachi and Sakaisuji Lines.
Nearest Hotels:
:: Check availability and pricing for hotels near Osaka Tenmangu Shrine on Booking.com or Agoda.com.
Telephone:
+81-6-6353-0025
Website:
Official Website (Japanese)
Near To Here:
Osaka Tenmangu Shrine is located in Osaka's Kita and Umeda district. See our complete list of things to do in the Kita and Umeda district, including places to eat, nightlife and places to stay.
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Osaka Vacation Checklist
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