This is the oldest of Japan's 10,000+ Tenman-Gu, although not the most prominent: that honour goes to the Kitano and Dazaifu Tenamn-Gu.

​

At the time of the relocation of the capital in the late 8th century, Michizane's great-grandfather, Haze Furuhito, accompanied Emperor Kanmu to the new capital and built a new family residence there. The family name was changed to Sugawara during the life of Michizane's grandfather, Kiyohito. The latter was travelling as an envoy to Tang China (or returning from, the evidence is not clear) when he encountered a fierce storm from which he was saved by a miraculous intervention by the goddess Kissho Tennyo. Since then she has been worshipped by the Sugawara family. Either Michizane's father or grandfather then built a temple in the family grounds to honour her. The temple was called Kisshoin and gave its name to the area.

​

The foundation of the shrine is said to have been in 934. Michizane was born in the family residence in 845 and left in 863. After his death in exile in Kyushu in 903 his troubled spirit appeared to an ascetic and gave the latter a religious vow which was then passed on to the Emperor Suzaku. It is said that in 934 this emperor carved a statue of Michizane and built a shrine at the site dedicated to Michizane; the shrine soon became known as Kisshoin Tenmangu. In 1590 Toyotomi Hideyoshi seized the shrine's land. Despite the passing of the Distinction between Shinto and Buddhism Order at the beginning of the Meiji Period the Kisshoin Temple and the Kichijoten statue have been preserved, testimony to the syncretism of Buddhism and Shinto.

​

According to shrine records Kisshoin is famous as the site of Michizane’s birth, although other sources disagree. A number of relics relating to Michizane can be found in the shrine grounds; among them are the “Mirror Well,” which is said to have reflected his face when he visited the shrine, and the “Kanko Ena Mound,” where his umbilical cord is said to be buried.

​

The practice of Rokusai Nenbutsu-a ceremony of praying to the Buddha-has been widely practiced in the area since ancient times, and the Kisshotai Rokusai Nenbutsu Odori Dance has been designated as a National Important Intangible Folk cultural Asset. This traditional performance is held at the hall for sacred dance and music on the grounds during the spring (April 25) and summer (August 25) festivals each year.