Mentai-ju News vol.13

Although the beginning of spring has passed and it is now spring according to the calendar, the cold weather continues.
The National Center Test for University Admissions ended last month, and entrance exam season is now in full swing.
Dazaifu (now Dazaifu City, Fukuoka Prefecture), which once flourished as the second largest city in Japan after Heijo-kyo in Nara, is home to Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine, known as the "god of learning."
Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine is the head shrine of approximately 12,000 shrines across the country that worship Sugawara no Michizane as their deity.

Sugawara no Michizane devoted himself to his studies from an early age, and on October 18, 877, at the young age of 33, he became a scholar of the highest rank, a doctor of literary studies.
Every year on October 18th, a "Special Exam Success Prayer Festival" is held at the main shrine to pray for success.
During the festival period from October 1st to 31st, the tower gate is decorated with the "Hiryu Tenjin Nebuta," which is based on the legend of the Toryumon Gate, and resembles a dragon soaring high into the sky.
Candidates pass through the tower gate with the hope of overcoming difficult obstacles.
Those who receive prayers for success in their exams will be given a special talisman, special amulet, special votive plaque, and collar that are all linked to the legend of the Dragon Gate.

In addition, Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine has been undergoing major renovations of its main hall (a nationally designated important cultural property) for the first time in 124 years since May 2023.
During the renovation period, visitors will be able to worship at the "temporary shrine."
It was designed with the concept of "a forest appearing on the roof."
The "Temporary Shrine" can only be visited for a limited period of three years. Don't miss this rare opportunity to visit.