A Tang Dynasty Treasure Shining Through a Millennium

In Fujiidera City, Osaka Prefecture, a treasure is quietly preserved at Domyoji Tenmangu Shrine. The Seihakuji Circular Inkstone—a 27-centimeter diameter circular inkstone with a pale blue-tinged white porcelain beauty that captivates all who see it. This is not merely an art object. It is a Tang Dynasty masterpiece from over 1,100 years ago, said to have been cherished by Sugawara no Michizane, revered as Japan's god of learning.

Why This Inkstone is a National Treasure

There are three reasons why the Seihakuji Circular Inkstone was designated as a National Treasure. First, it is the finest qingbai porcelain produced in Tang Dynasty imperial kilns. Second, it belonged to Sugawara no Michizane, one of Japan's most important cultural figures. Third, it tells the story of cultural preservation spanning over a thousand years.

This is the only ceramic inkstone in Japan designated as a National Treasure. The luxurious structure, originally supported by 20 legs, indicates it was special stationery used by Tang Dynasty emperors and high officials.

The Mystical Beauty of Qingbai Porcelain

The appeal of qingbai lies in its delicate coloring. Neither pure white nor blue, but a pale bluish-white like morning mist. This color emerges when trace amounts of iron in the glaze undergo reduction firing at temperatures exceeding 1,200 degrees Celsius.

Perfecting this technique required flawless skill at every stage, from material selection to firing. The Domyoji Tenmangu inkstone proves that such technology had already reached its zenith during the Tang Dynasty—truly a miraculous work.

The Deep Connection Between Sugawara no Michizane and Domyoji

Why is this precious inkstone at Domyoji Tenmangu? It relates deeply to Sugawara no Michizane's lineage. Michizane's ancestors were the ancient Haji clan, and Domyoji (then called Haji-dera) was their clan temple.

When Michizane died in Dazaifu in 903, following his will, his cherished belongings were sent to Domyoji, where his aunt Kakuju-ni served as head priest. Among these items was this qingbai circular inkstone. Since then, it has been carefully preserved as a sacred relic commemorating Michizane.

Visiting Information

This National Treasure can only be viewed during limited special exhibitions throughout the year. The main public viewing opportunities are during the New Year's first three days, the plum festival from mid-February to mid-March, and on the 25th of each month for Tenjin shrine festivals.

Domyoji Tenmangu is just a 3-minute walk from Domyoji Station on the Kintetsu Minami-Osaka Line. It's conveniently accessible from central Osaka in about 30 minutes. The shrine grounds feature 800 varieties of plum trees, making it one of Kansai's premier plum viewing spots during the flowering season.

Cultural Heritage Tour of Fujiidera City

After viewing the qingbai inkstone, explore Fujiidera City's other cultural treasures. Fujiidera Temple, which gave the city its name, houses the National Treasure Thousand-Armed Kannon statue with 1,043 arms. Domyoji Temple contains the National Treasure Eleven-Faced Kannon statue—both masterpieces of Japanese Buddhist art.

Additionally, parts of the Mozu-Furuichi Kofun Group, registered as a World Cultural Heritage site in 2019, are located within the city, offering visitors a chance to experience Japan's grand ancient history. Fujiidera City is truly a treasure trove of cultural heritage.

Deepening Understanding at the Museum of Oriental Ceramics

For those wanting to learn more about qingbai porcelain, we recommend visiting the Museum of Oriental Ceramics, Osaka. Boasting one of the world's finest Chinese ceramics collections, the museum permanently displays Song Dynasty qingbai masterpieces, allowing visitors to study the historical development of qingbai while comparing with the Domyoji Tenmangu inkstone.

A Cultural Testament Shining Through Millennia

The Seihakuji Circular Inkstone is not merely an antique. It is evidence of cultural exchange between Japan and China, a sacred relic preserving the memory of the great scholar Sugawara no Michizane, and a symbol of Japan's cultural preservation tradition maintained for over a thousand years.

What this small inkstone tells us is that cultural power connects people's hearts across eras and borders, and the importance of protecting and passing on such cultural heritage. When you visit Domyoji Tenmangu and encounter this treasure, you will surely experience the emotion that transcends a thousand years.