Dazaifu

The city of Dazaifu is a local government that had administered the whole area of the Kyushu district over 5 centuries, from the latter half of the 7th century through the Nawa and Heian eras. While governing the Kyushu district, Dazaifu played a very strategic role against the Continent of China and the Korean Peninsula, where the soldiers were garrisoned as a western defense. Many historic assets remain within the city. From the Nishitetsu Fukuoka station, take a special express of the Nishitetsu Oomuta line, and get off at the Futsukaichi staion (about a 15-minute ride). Here, change to a train of the Nishitetsu Dazai line, and get off at the Dazaifu staion (about an 8-minute ride).

	Walk [Visit] Dazaifu Tenmangu: Dazaifu Tenmangu is a head shrine of Tenmangu's, where the God of literature or calligraphy, Michizane Sugawara, is deified all over Japan. Within it's precincts there are elegant places, such as "The Tobiume (the flying plum tree)", that are related to the specific legend. During the February student examination season, many people come here to visit. This shrine is located near the Nishitetsu Dazaifu station (a 5-minute walk), and is open from dawn to dusk. Free admission.
	Topics [Lucky Charm] Kiuso This kamidori (the bird of God) brings good luck. Be sure to buy this lucky charm in a souvenir shop in Tenmangu, or on your way to visit the shrine. Umegae-mochi It has been said that the this rice cake got it's name because it was once served to the lord Michizane with a branch of the plum (ume) tree attached.