Hatsu-Tenjin (First Tenjin Shrine Fair of the Year)
Seasonal EventsWhat Is Hatsu-Tenjin?
January 25 is Hatsu-Tenjin. At Kitano Tenmangu Shrine in Kyoto, which enshrines Sugawara no Michizane, the 25th of every month is a fair day known as "Tenjin-san's day," and the busiest are Hatsu-Tenjin on January 25 and Shimai-Tenjin on December 25.
Why the 25th Is Tenjin-san's Day
According to Kitano Tenmangu, the monthly fair on the 25th comes from the birthday and the day of death of Sugawara no Michizane.
- Birthday: Sugawara no Michizane (Kanko) is said to have been born on June 25.
- Day of death: Kanko is said to have died on February 25.
- Monthly fair: In honor of these two dates, the 25th of every month is Kitano Tenmangu's fair day. Stalls line the approach all day, and the grounds are lit up after sunset.
- God of learning: Kanko was an outstanding statesman as well as a poet and calligrapher, and Kitano Tenmangu is revered as the shrine of the god of learning.
Hatsu-Tenjin Crowded with Students
According to Kitano Tenmangu, about 1,000 stalls, more than usual, line the shrine grounds and surroundings on Hatsu-Tenjin, and around 150,000 people visit. Many students facing entrance exams and their parents come to pray, receiving prayers for exam success or writing their wishes on ema votive plaques.
Tips for Marking This Day
- Visit a nearby Tenmangu or Tenjin shrine
- If someone in your family or circle is preparing for an exam, offer a few words of encouragement
- If you are in Kyoto, browse the stalls at Kitano Tenmangu's Hatsu-Tenjin
- Learn about Sugawara no Michizane's poems and life
Sharing This Year's Wishes with the God of Learning
Hatsu-Tenjin on January 25 is a Tenjin shrine fair held just before entrance exams. Not only for students but also for anyone facing a qualification exam or a new challenge, it is a good chance to confirm your goals for the year. Why not entrust your wishes for this year to Tenjin-sama?