Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine (Fukuoka)

My visit to Daizufu Tenmangu was very swift as the light was failing. The ancient Shinto shrine that visitors can see today dates from 1591. It is dedicated to the spirit of Michizane Sugawara who lived over a thousand years ago and is deified as the god of literature and calligraphy. Dazaifu Tenmangu is famous for its 6000 plum trees of over 150 varieties and is always packed with tourists. There is ample car parking but it’s easier to take the direct train from Yakuin station in Fukuoka to beat the slow-moving traffic, especially at rush hour. As with Kumamoto, Dazaifu has its famous sweet treats. Invented in Dazaifu, Umegae Mochi is a mochi rice cake filled with sweet red bean paste. “Oishii!” (Delicious.) Careful not to eat one straight away as you can burn your tongue on the piping hot red bean paste. Umegae mochi is shaped like an ume (plum) blossom, the emblem for Dazaifu Tenmangu (shrine).
Entrance of Daizufu Tenmangu
Umegae Mochi

Kyushu National Museum

Now this museum is special! I’ve visited Dazaifu Tenmangu many times to view autumn ‘koyo’ (the changing colours) and the famed plum and cherry blossoms in spring but I’d never actually entered the museum, only seen the distinct wave like architectural from afar. I was privileged to be given a tour of the museum by the public relations director. It was yet another eye-opening learning experience, viewing the ancient artifacts dating as far back as the 4th century (and earlier). It brought home how rich the history and culture of Kyushu is. I would thoroughly recommend a visit. They also feature an interactive display about the exchange of goods and produce between China and Japan. A great ‘hands-on’ experience getting to touch old coins, silk fibres and smelling produce from the spice trade. I also got to dress up in a Yamakasa outfit. Yamakasa is an annual festival held in Hakata that has taken place pretty much every year (in July) since the 12th century.


 

Culture&History trip