The Flying Dragon Lantern at Dazaifu Tenmangu: A Magical October Night in Japan

Hi, it’s Sachi!

In October, Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine takes on a truly special atmosphere.
During this season, the shrine hosts the Special Exam Success Festival, and an impressive Flying Dragon Nebuta Lantern decorates the main gate.
When night falls, the dragon is beautifully illuminated, glowing with a mystical light that fills the shrine grounds.

If you’re preparing for an important exam, it’s the perfect time to offer a prayer for success.
And even if not, this is a wonderful chance to experience a unique October visit — guided by the shining dragon of Dazaifu Tenmangu.

What Is the “Special Exam Success Festival”?

Every October, Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine holds a special event called the “Special Exam Success Festival.”

This festival honors Sugawara no Michizane, known across Japan as the God of Learning.
It commemorates the day — October 18, 877 (the first year of Gankyō) — when he was appointed as Monjō Hakase,the highest academic title of his time.

Because of this, October 18 is considered a very important and sacred day at Dazaifu Tenmangu.
In 2025, the festival period runs from October 1 to 31,
with special ceremonies held at the main shrine on Saturday, October 18 at 10 AM and 2 PM.

The Flying Dragon Nebuta Appears!

During the festival period, the main gate of Dazaifu Tenmangu is decorated with a spectacular Flying Dragon Nebuta lantern.
Its design is inspired by the ancient Chinese legend of the “Dragon Gate.”

According to this legend, a carp that bravely swims upstream and climbs a powerful waterfall transforms into a dragon.
The story symbolizes overcoming challenges and achieving great success through effort —
a perfect theme for students praying for exam success!

When you see it in person, the lantern has a powerful and energetic presence in the daytime.
But at night, it becomes something entirely different — softly illuminated, glowing with a mystical light that feels almost otherworldly.

The light-up runs from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM,
so I recommend visiting both during the day and after sunset to enjoy the completely different moods of this magnificent dragon.

Daytime Nebuta | A Powerful and Dynamic Sight

When you see the Flying Dragon Nebuta in the daytime, its energy is truly breathtaking.
The carp climbing the waterfall stands out vividly on the front pillars, and you can’t help but stop and admire its powerful form.

The contrast between the bright red Romon Gate and the blue sky makes it a perfect photo spot.
Under the sunlight, the dragon and carp look bold and full of life —
so don’t forget to capture this powerful moment with your camera!

Nighttime Nebuta | A Magical Light-Up Experience

At night, the Flying Dragon Nebuta transforms completely.
Illuminated against the dark sky, the interplay of light and shadow gives the dragon an even more powerful and mysterious presence.

The glowing figure seems to inspire strength and hope —
as if it’s quietly encouraging every visitor to keep striving toward their goals.
For those praying for exam success, this radiant dragon feels especially symbolic and uplifting.

Please note that the Romon Gate closes at 7:00 PM,
so make sure to finish your shrine visit before then.
The photo below was taken after 7 PM — the gate is closed, but the dragon still shines brightly in the night!

Even from a distance, the shining dragon glows brilliantly, illuminating the night at Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine.

Here’s how the Romon Gate looks on an ordinary night, without the dragon.
The stillness has its own kind of beauty — a serene, dignified presence that I find truly peaceful.

The temporary main hall is also decorated with dragon motifs, giving it a more festive and vibrant atmosphere than usual!

Limited-Time Amulets and Talismans

During the festival period, those who apply for the Special Exam Success Prayer can receive exclusive amulets, talismans, ema (wooden prayer plaques), and sacred sashes.

These items are not only meaningful charms to support your studies,
but also make wonderful gifts from family or friends to students preparing for exams.

Information from the official page of the “Special Exam Success Prayer (Individual Prayer)”
🔗 Official Website

Main Festival Day Information

Date & Time: Saturday, October 18 – 10:00 AM / 2:00 PM
Location: Temporary Main Hall (Kariden)
Attendance: Open to the public (registration required)
Prayer Fee: ¥20,000 / ¥15,000 / ¥8,000

All visitors are welcome to join the ceremony.

Access Information

Address: 4-7-1 Saifu, Dazaifu City, Fukuoka,Japan

Access by Train

From Nishitetsu Fukuoka (Tenjin) Station

Take the Nishitetsu Omuta Line to Futsukaichi Station,
then transfer to the Nishitetsu Dazaifu Line and get off at Dazaifu Station.

From JR Hakata Station

Take the JR Kagoshima Main Line to JR Futsukaichi Station,
then walk(about 10 minutes) to Nishitetsu Futsukaichi Station and transfer to the Nishitetsu Dazaifu Line.
Get off at Dazaifu Station.

From the Nearest Station

It takes about 5 minutes on foot from Nishitetsu Dazaifu Station to reach the Romon Gate of Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine.

Access by Bus

Direct from Hakata Station or Fukuoka Airport
Take the Nishitetsu “Dazaifu Liner Bus Tabito”,
and get off at the final stop, Dazaifu Station.
The ride takes about 40 to 45 minutes.

Access by Car

・About 6 km (15 minutes) from Dazaifu I.C. on the Kyushu Expressway

・About 5 km (15 minutes) from Chikushino I.C. on the Kyushu Expressway

Conclusion

The Special Exam Success Festival is one of the most meaningful events of the year for students in Japan.
In the daytime, the Flying Dragon Nebuta radiates strength and energy,
while at night, it glows with a mystical light — each with its own kind of beauty and inspiration.

Whether you’re a student preparing for exams, a family member offering support,
or simply someone who wants to feel the uplifting energy of the glowing dragon,
October is the perfect time to visit Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine and experience this special festival.

Wishing you a smooth journey and a memorable visit to Dazaifu!
– Sachi 🌸

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