Tenjin
This performance depicts Sugawara no Michizane, later worshipped as Tenjin, the god of learning. It portrays his journey from political conflict and exile to becoming a powerful divine figure.
The story is based on the life of Sugawara no Michizane, a powerful scholar and politician of the Heian period. Michizane falls victim to political rivalry and is exiled from Kyoto despite his innocence. After his death, a series of disasters strikes the capital, and people begin to believe that his angry spirit has returned as a powerful deity. He is eventually worshipped as Tenjin, a god associated with learning and scholarship.
Sugawara no Michizane — A highly respected scholar and politician who is unfairly exiled from Kyoto.
Tenjin — The divine form of Michizane after his death. He becomes associated with learning, scholarship, and protection.
Political Rivals — The people responsible for the political conflict that leads to Michizane's exile.
The Emperor — The imperial authority whose court is involved in the political events surrounding Michizane.
Watch the transformation of Michizane's story from political tragedy to divine power. His scholarly identity, elegant movements, and eventual transformation into Tenjin create a contrast between the human politician and the powerful deity he becomes.
Photographs from Hiroshima Kagura performances
No photographs are available yet.