Kitano Tenjin – Legends of a Shinto God 2026 Japan Ticket

Sat April 25, 2026 9:00 am - 6:00 pmAsia/Tokyo

Kyoto National Museum Heisei Chishinkan (Kyoto)
Kyoto, Japan

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Description

Overview

The Kyoto National Museum presents a landmark special exhibition titled Kitano Tenjin: Legends of a Shinto God. This exhibition is organized in anticipation of a grand memorial observance to be held in 2027, marking the 1,125th anniversary of the death of Sugawara no Michizane. Known as the deity of learning, Michizane’s life and the subsequent evolution of Tenjin worship have left an indelible mark on Japanese culture, religion, and art.

This curated showcase brings together an unprecedented assemblage of masterpieces, including ancient shrine treasures from Kitano Tenmangū and sacred works from Tenmangū shrines across Japan. A major highlight is the first-ever complete public display of the National Treasure handscrolls, Illustrated Legends of the Kitano Tenjin Shrine. Visitors will have a rare opportunity to explore the various narrative representations of the deity’s origins and the enduring influence of this tradition on the Japanese cultural landscape.

Schedule & Tickets Information

Date	Venue	Seat Types
2026/04/18 (Sat) – 2026/06/14 (Sun)	Kyoto National Museum Heisei Chishinkan (Kyoto)	Adults, University students, High school students

Venue Information

Kyoto National Museum, Heisei Chishinkan Wing
527 Chaya-machi, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto 605-0931
Entry is through the main gates; ticket holders should proceed to the Heisei Chishinkan Wing entrance.
Located directly across from the famous Sanjusangendo Temple and near the Hyatt Regency Kyoto.

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Faqs

Who is the central figure of the Kitano Tenjin exhibition?

The exhibition centers on Sugawara no Michizane, a brilliant Heian-period scholar and politician who was later deified as Tenjin. He is widely revered in Japan as the patron god of academic success and calligraphy.

What are the operating hours for the museum during this period?

The museum is open from 9:00 to 17:30 most days, with special extended hours until 20:00 every Friday. Please note that the final admission is allowed only until 30 minutes before the scheduled closing time.

Is the museum open on holidays during the exhibition?

While the museum typically closes on Mondays, it will remain open on Monday, May 4, to accommodate visitors during the holiday week. If a Monday is a holiday, the museum usually observes a closing day on the following Tuesday instead.

Are there any National Treasures included in the display?

Yes, the exhibition features several National Treasures, most notably the Illustrated Legends of the Kitano Tenjin Shrine (Jōkyū version). This is the first time all scenes of these famous handscrolls are being shown together in a single exhibition.

How do I reach the Kyoto National Museum using public transport?

The museum is easily accessible via the Kyoto City Bus by getting off at the “Hakubutsukan Sanjusangendo-mae” stop. Alternatively, it is a pleasant seven-minute walk eastward from Shichijo Station on the Keihan Railway line.