Tenjin-san Market of the Kitano Tenmangu Shrine

Monthly Ennichi Market Creating Energy and Excitement

Attracting many people every month, the highlight at the Kitano Tenmangu Shrine is definitely the monthly flea market known as the Ennichi Market or “Tenjin-san.” Honorably named after Sugawara no Michizane, a revered poet and statesman, the founder, and enshrined deity of the shrine who was born on the 25th of a month.

Marked by an ambiance that oscillates from vibrant and bustling during midday to tranquil post-sunset with illuminating stone lanterns lighting up the shrine’s main hall, the market stands as a symbol of Kyoto’s rich culture and history. It commences at around 6 a.m. and concludes by 6 p.m. It’s definitely one of the most awaited Kyoto events of the month.

Tenjin-san Market

Antique Stalls: The Market’s Highlight

Dominating the scene at Ennichi are numerous antique stalls offering a range of commodities from traditional Japanese pottery and jewelry to second-hand clothes. These stalls serve as perfect avenues for both locals and travelers to shop for memorabilia.

Kimono Stalls Offering Timeless Elegance

A noteworthy feature of these markets is undoubtedly the stalls selling distinctive antique or restored kimonos. The ubiquity of these garments reflects their significance in Japan’s culture and tradition.

Food Stalls Serving Japanese Soul Food

Packed with diverse food stalls selling delicacies, such as takoyaki, yaki soba noodles, karaage fried chicken, and oden, a visit to this market is incomplete without devouring these Japanese soul foods.

Games a Plenty with Shooting Gallery Stalls

Shooting gallery stalls are an integral part of this eventful market with something for everybody. Winning prizes by showcasing your shooting skills is an age-old festival pastime enjoyed by visitors across different age groups.

Dates Tied To Traditional Japanese Calendar

Interestingly, some months draw more people than others. January, February, June (the birth month of Sugawara no Michizane), and December are some of those periods when around 150,000 people are expected.

Music to bargain hunter’s ears, 1000-odd stalls pop up within precincts of the shrine, making it one of the largest markets in Kyoto and the Kansai area.

Accessibility to Kitano Tenmangu Shrine

Visiting this captivating monthly market can prove easy if you know your way around Kyoto.

Enroute via Keifuku Dentetsu-Kitano Line, you’d disembark at Kitano Hakubaicho Station, followed by a small five-minute walk aligning to the main road. As an alternate route from JR Kyoto Station, city buses numbered #50 or #101 would make your journey comfortable until Kitano Tenmangu-Mae ensures your prompt entry into this marketplace.

This wholesome marketplace is a testament that traditional practices when nurtured well, evolve splendidly with time without losing their inherent charm. Plan your itineraries wisely to absorb its essence while on your escapade through historic Japan.

Another market place that you should try is the Umekoji Park Handicrafts Market, held on the first Saturday of every month (except January and May). With over 300 stalls offering unique handmade accessories, exquisite Kiyomizu-yaki pottery, delectable baked goods, and more, this market nestled in the lush greenery of Umekoji Park is a must-visit destination for locals and travelers alike.