Misode Tenmangu Shrine is a shrine dedicated to Sugawara no Michizane, who is revered as the god of learning. It is a historic shrine that is said to have been founded during the Enkyu era (1069-1074). The name of the shrine is said to have come from the fact that when Michizane stopped off in Onomichi on his way to Dazaifu, he expressed his gratitude to the local people for their hospitality by drawing his image on his sleeve and giving it to them.

Misode Tenmangu Shrine was made famous overnight by the movie "Transfer Student" directed by Onomichi native Nobuhiko Obayashi. The movie was the setting for the impressive scene in which the main characters, a man and a woman, roll down the long stone steps of the shrine and switch bodies, and it has become a sacred place visited by many movie fans even today. There are 55 stone steps, and the difference in height and the quaint atmosphere further enhance the world view of the movie.

During the exam season, the shrine is crowded with students and families who come to pray for success. It is also said that the shrine is blessed with benefits related to "fate," as the saying goes, "Even a brush with your sleeves is a bond in another life." There is also a "rubbing cow" on the grounds, and it is said that rubbing any part of your body that is ailing will bring you good fortune. Along with the charming streetscape of Onomichi, this is a power spot where you can enjoy history, culture, and a tour of movie filming locations.

With large trees and other features, it is a quaint shrine that is not flashy.

You can get to Saigokuji Temple from the grounds via Daisenji Temple.