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Dazaifu Tenmangu Observes Special Exam Passing Prayer Grand Festival Period
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Dazaifu Tenmangu began its Special Exam Passing Prayer Grand Festival period on October 1, continuing through October 31. The shrine, known for its dedication to Tenjin-sama Sugawara no Michizane, a revered scholar, holds this annual event to support students facing academic challenges. Michizane achieved the highest scholarly position of Monjo Hakase at the age of 33 in 877 AD, inspiring the shrine's focus on academic aspirations.
The festival features two special ceremonies on October 18, held at the temporary shrine building at 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM. This marks the first year the shrine has conducted these rituals twice on the same day. The date holds particular significance as it marks the anniversary of Michizane's achievement of the Monjo Hakase position.
Throughout the festival period, the shrine displays the 'Hiryu Tenjin Nebuta' at its main gate, inspired by the legend of the Dragon Gate. This decoration symbolizes the hope that students will successfully overcome their academic challenges, much like the legendary carp that leaps over the dragon gate to become a dragon.
Visitors who apply for exam passing prayers during the festival period will receive special amulets, charms, ema (wooden plaques for written prayers), and hanging collars. These items are exclusively available during this time and serve as tangible tokens of support for students' academic endeavors.
The shrine encourages all students to visit during this festival period. The combination of special rituals, symbolic decorations, and exclusive offerings creates a supportive environment for those seeking academic success. The festival period continues through October 31, providing ample opportunity for students to participate in the various offerings.
Source: Dazaifu Tenmangu — 10月1日（木）～31日（土）「特別受験合格祈願大祭」期間｜おしらせ｜太宰府天満宮