The definitive guide to sightseeing spots in Dazaifu City, Fukuoka Prefecture, to visit along with Dazaifu Tenmangu!

Dazaifu City is home to Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine, which enshrines Sugawara no Michizane, the god of learning. About 15% of Dazaifu City is designated as historic sites, and the city is dotted with retro streets and buildings of historical value, making it a fantastic sightseeing destination! Every year, many students from all over Japan visit to pray for success in exams. Since you’ve come all the way to Dazaifu, why not fully enjoy the charm of this historic city? Here are some must-visit spots for sightseeing in Dazaifu.

1. Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine

When talking about famous shrines in Dazaifu City, Fukuoka Prefecture, Dazaifu Tenmangu comes to mind. It is easily accessible from Fukuoka City and is a popular spiritual sightseeing spot. Known as the “god of learning,” the shrine enshrines Sugawara no Michizane, who was highly intelligent, rose from a low rank to become the right-hand man of the Emperor, and passed away here in Dazaifu.

As the head shrine of 12,000 Tenmangu shrines nationwide, Dazaifu Tenmangu attracts more than 8 million worshippers annually. From January to March, the plum blossoms bloom, filling the grounds with their fragrance. Highlights include the splendid vermilion-roofed tower gate and the Taiko Bridge over Shinji Pond, which is said to purify the mind and body as you cross it.

Don’t forget to make Dazaifu Tenmangu the centerpiece of your Dazaifu sightseeing.

2. Mount Hōman

From Nishitetsu Dazaifu Station, you can see Mount Hōman, which reaches an elevation of 829.6 meters. It is a sightseeing spot in Dazaifu said to be approachable even for beginner hikers, from children to adults. The mountain is also said to be inhabited by gods and is known as a place of ascetic training.

On clear days, you can enjoy panoramic views of Fukuoka City and the surrounding Dazaifu area from the summit. The scenery after reaching the top is exceptional! Step into the crisp air and soak in negative ions with your whole body.

3. Hōman-gu Kamado Shrine

Hōman-gu Kamado Shrine is a popular sightseeing spot in Dazaifu, known as a spiritual place for matchmaking. It is located on Mount Hōman, also called “Kamado Mountain” because of the smoke once seen rising from its hearths, and it is worshipped as a shrine for “matchmaking,” “warding off misfortune,” and “protection from evil.”

It was rebuilt in 2012 (Heisei 24), and its stylish design is surprising for a shrine, which usually carries a more traditional image. While admiring the harmony with the autumn leaves, why not visit Hōman-gu Kamado Shrine with the hope of a destined connection in the future?

4. Kyushu National Museum

Commonly referred to as “Kyuhaku,” the Kyushu National Museum is located in Dazaifu City and houses exhibitions related to history. It is one of the four national museums in Japan and is a popular sightseeing spot in Dazaifu with over 1 million visitors annually.

With the theme “Understanding the formation of Japanese culture from an Asian historical perspective,” which reflects Kyushu’s long history of interaction with Asia, the museum also holds various special exhibitions. It features a multipurpose museum hall where performances and plays are held. A walkway called the “Rainbow Tunnel” connects the museum directly from the grounds of Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine. Why not visit it together with Dazaifu Tenmangu?

5. Tsukushi-no-Yu

Located right next to Dazaifu’s Kamado Shrine is “Tsukushi-no-Yu,” a relaxing spot where you can enjoy day-use hot springs and meals. It has men’s baths, women’s baths, and family baths, so you can enjoy it no matter who you come with. Soaking in the hot springs while looking at the seasonal nature is a moment of true relaxation.

After enjoying sightseeing in Dazaifu, why not stop by casually?

6. Site of the Dazaifu Government Office

In the late 7th century, Dazaifu was the administrative center governing the Kyushu region and served as a diplomatic gateway to foreign countries. This is the site where the Dazaifu government office once stood. Today, only the foundation stones remain, telling the story of its former grandeur. The site also serves as a public square for large-scale music events and is a popular cherry blossom viewing spot where people can relax.

For those who want to explore the history of Dazaifu City, this is an unmissable sightseeing spot.

◎ Summary

Starting with Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine, all the sightseeing spots in Dazaifu are located within easy reach of each other, making it simple to plan your trip. Don’t miss the gourmet food and stylish spots along the approach to each site. Even if you no longer need to pray to the god of learning, why not discover new pleasures in Dazaifu? When visiting Fukuoka, take a little detour and enjoy sightseeing in Dazaifu!