Ushitenjin Kitano Shrine Annual Festival 2026 — 5 Limited Goshuin on May 24–25
This weekend, Ushitenjin Kitano Shrine in Bunkyo, Tokyo holds its once-a-year annual festival. Over two days — Sunday, May 24 and Monday, May 25, 2026 — a total of 5 types of limited goshuin are expected to be offered, including those from subordinate shrines within the grounds.
What Is Ushitenjin?
“Ushitenjin” is the common name for Kitano Shrine, located at 1-chome Kasuga, Bunkyo Ward, Tokyo. The enshrined deity is Sugawara no Michizane, known as Tenjin-sama.
The name “Ushi” (ox) traces back to a legend involving Minamoto no Yoritomo. In 1184, while passing through this area on his way to subjugate the Oshu region, Yoritomo rested at the base of a pine tree. In a dream, Tenjin-sama appeared riding an ox and told him that two auspicious events awaited him. Shortly afterward, Yoritomo succeeded in establishing the Kamakura shogunate and securing the dominance of the Minamoto clan.
Yoritomo enshrined the deity of Kitano Tenjin at this site and dedicated a stone carved in the shape of an ox. This stone — known as the “nade-ushi” (stroking ox) — has been passed down ever since and sits before the main hall today. Visitors who stroke it are said to have their wishes granted or to gain academic ability, drawing a steady stream of students and those praying for success in their studies. Combined with the fact that Tenjin-sama is the god of learning, the shrine is deeply rooted in the scholarly and educational character of Bunkyo Ward.
The Annual Festival and 5 Limited Goshuin
Kitano Shrine’s annual festival is held every year on May 24–25. In recent years, it has become tradition to offer commemorative limited goshuin during these two days alongside the regular ones.
In 2026, 5 types are expected to be offered, including those from subordinate shrines on the grounds. The precinct houses several auxiliary shrines — including Miwa Shrine (enshrining Omiwa no Mikoto) and an Inari shrine — each of which offers its own goshuin year-round. During the festival period, special commemorative versions are offered on top of those.
Typical offerings (based on past years):
- Annual festival commemorative version of the main shrine goshuin (motifs of Tenjin-sama, plum blossoms, oxen, etc.)
- Festival-edition goshuin for each subordinate shrine
- Pre-written slip (書き置き) versions available during busy periods
Quantities are limited, so arriving early in the morning — ideally between 9 and 11 a.m. — is recommended. Official distribution details are announced on Kitano Shrine’s social media; check in advance.
Bunkyo Ward as a Shrine Culture Hub
Bunkyo Ward has one of the highest concentrations of shrines in Tokyo. Well-known sites such as Yushima Tenman-gu, Nezu Shrine, and others are clustered in this area.
This reflects the urban layout of the Edo period, when the Bunkyo area was a mix of samurai estates and temples and shrines, many of which were protected as tutelary deities of daimyo and hatamoto families. After the Meiji-era separation of Buddhism and Shinto, the local parishioner organizations maintained these shrines, allowing many to survive to the present day.
Ushitenjin Kitano Shrine is a prime example. Sitting atop a small hill once called “Ushitenjin-yama,” the shrine offers an unusual stillness — surrounded by birdsong and trees — despite being in the heart of the city.
Access and Visiting Tips
Nearest stations: Tokyo Metro Namboku Line / Marunouchi Line “Korakuen” — 5 min walk / Toei Mita Line “Kasuga” — 3 min walk
Address: 1-5-2 Kasuga, Bunkyo Ward, Tokyo
Festival dates: Sunday, May 24 – Monday, May 25, 2026
The area around the shrine can get crowded on festival days. If you want to be sure of receiving a goshuin, aim for early morning (9–11 a.m.). Pre-written slips may be the primary format available.
For Those Planning a Tokyo Shrine Visit
Ushitenjin Kitano Shrine is well worth visiting on its own, but Bunkyo Ward is also home to Nezu Shrine, Yushima Tenman-gu, and Koishikawa Daijingu — all within walking distance. Spending a full day in Bunkyo during the festival weekend is an efficient route for goshuin collectors.
For a broader overview of Tokyo shrines, see the Tokyo Goshuin Guide — Shrines by Ward and Recommended Routes, which also covers how to receive goshuin and seasonal highlights.
Sources:
- Kitano Shrine (Ushitenjin) Official Information – Bunkyo Tourism
- Goshuin Meguri App – Ushitenjin Kitano Shrine Spot Page
- Chiku Blog – Tokyo May Goshuin Roundup 2026
Image credit: “Kitano-jinja (Kasuga, Bunkyo) 01” by Higa4, Wikimedia Commons, CC0 1.0
Information in this article is current as of May 20, 2026. Goshuin availability and quantities are subject to change on the day. Please confirm with the shrine’s official social media.
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