Nanzoin Temple – A Magnificent Temple In The Countryside Of Fukuoka

Want to admire a magnificent, unique temple in Fukuoka? Visit Nanzoin Temple and one of the world’s largest reclining Buddhas!

Here’s my complete guide for you!

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Nanzoin Temple in a few words

Let’s talk a little about history and how such a beautiful temple could have met a different fate without the perseverance and devotion of the people.

Originally located on Mt. Koyasan, the temple was forced to moved to its current location during the anti-Buddhist movement of 1886.

Nanzoin is a Shingon Buddhist temple, one of the major schools of Buddhism in Japan. It’s also home to a beautiful and majestic bronze reclining Buddha, in fact one of the largest in the world. The temple is also known for its charitable donations in Southeast Asia and for being the first temple on the Sasaguri Shikoku Pilgrimage.

So, what’s a visit to this splendid site like, and why should it be on your itinerary? Keep reading!

The Visit

First things first, let me remind you that Nanzoin, like any other temples and shrines, is a sacred place and not a tourist attraction! So remember to be respectful, quiet, and follow all the rules regarding the use of tripods, selfie sticks, revealing clothing and so on.

Here are its main sights!

1. Melody Bridge and the Train Station

As soon as you arrive in Sasaguri and at the cute little JR Kido Nanzoinmae station, you’ll be greeted by the fresh country air and a unique bridge: the Melody Bridge, where, as you may have guessed, you can actually play tunes on its xylophone bars.

You’ll often hear Japanese people playing children’s song, but you can play whatever you like, or just admire it if, like me, you’re not that good at playing an instrument!

2. Seven Lucky Gods Tunnel

Right before you make your way to the Nirvana statue, you’ll pass through the Seven Lucky Gods Tunnel who are enshrined here. This group of deities is associated with good fortune and prosperity, and actually come from different countries and traditions: India (Hindu-Buddhist), China (Taoist-Buddhist) and Japan (Shinto).

You can also see small Jizo statues on either side, which generally represent protection of children, travelers, and are often used as memorials for those who have passed away.

Once you reach the end of the tunnel, you’ll arrive at Nakamise Shopping Street where you can buy incense, food and all kinds of offerings or souvenirs.

3. Buddha’s Nirvana Statue

This is where you’ll be awed by the majestic bronze statue of the reclining Buddha, or Buddha’s Nirvana statue.

At 11 meters high, 300 tons and 41 meters long, to say that the statue is impressive is an euphemism. So it comes as no surprise when you know that it’s one of the largest of its kind in the world.

In front of the Buddha, you’ll see hundreds of stone statues, all different, but all superbly detailed and with their own personality, if I may say so.

A ribbon is also tied to the Buddha’s hand and leads to the offering box, allowing people to pray and receive Buddha’s spiritual power and blessings.

And if you climb the stairs on the right that lead to the feet of the statue, you’ll see the intricately designed golden soles, which are said to represent Buddha’s teachings, and touching them is said to bring good luck.

Overall, and even though I’m not particularly religious, standing in front of such an imposing and majestic statue, in a quiet, beautiful, and peaceful environment, certainly made me feel humble and fortunate to be able to witness such a sight and learn more about others’ culture and beliefs.

4. Nanzoin Temple Main Hall

Nanzoin Temple main hall is located right next to the Seven Lucky Gods Tunnel and above the entrance. This is where the primary deity of Nanzoin, Amida Nyora, is enshrined. You can also draw your fortune and purchase amulets, talismans, bracelets…

Memorial services and prayers are often held too. You can find the calendar of events on the official website here.

And if you go down from the main hall, you’ll notice a Maneki-neko statue, a powerful lucky charm in Japan, where you can once again draw your fortune by making a small offering, pray, and receive a small colorful cat with its right or left paw raised, depending on your fortune.

Each color represents something specific: protection, fortune, relationship…

Don’t forget to put the little cat in your wallet or purse so that its power can take effect!

Right next to the Maneki-neko statue, you’ll find a beautiful red bridge leading to a small mysterious cave, with a small waterfall and a pond where large colorful carp swim lazily.

5. Great Acala

If you keep walking up, you’ll rapidly come across a seizing and somewhat scary statue called the Great Acala or Fudo Myoo. His harsh features, combined with the sword he holds in one hand and the rope in the other, as well as the red flames on his back, make him not only striking but also intimidating.

And although he looks downright frightening, he’s actually one of the five Lords of Light and a guardian of the Laws of Buddhism. He guides believers toward the path of enlightenment and subdues evil with his weapons and burning flames.

I guess his name, which means the “Immovable One”, is well chosen and those who dared to challenge him must have been few in number.

There are numerous small shrines in the surrounding forest, as well as hundreds of statues scattered around the main sites. So feel free to explore the grounds at your own pace and take the time to admire the beauty of Nanzoin Temple.

Nearby attractions:

💦 Goto Falls
🔭 Komenoyama Observatory
🎏 Sannoji Temple

Tips for visiting Nanzoin Temple

1. Respect the rules

No revealing clothing, be quiet, no sitting in places where you’re not supposed to sit, no smoking or drinking alcohol, no littering, cover your tattoos, no selfie sticks or other similar accessories…

Always inform yourself beforehand and visit the official website for more details.

2. Always check events before you go

Whether you want to attend an event or avoid it because you’re afraid there will be too many people, always check the event calendar before you go.

Some sites may also be closed, so it’s best to be prepared.

3. Avoid weekends

I usually tend to avoid weekends when visiting places. People have more free time on weekends, so you’re bound to find them outside, enjoying the sun and the sights. But if, like me, you don’t like crowds and prefer to visit a place in a more tranquil setting, opt for weekdays.

How to get to Nanzoin Temple from Fukuoka

Just 30 minutes from Fukuoka, take the JC Fukuhokuyutaka from Hakata station and get off at JR Kidonanzoin-Mae station. The local train ride will only cost you ¥450.

Pretty easy with no transfer and a short time make it another great reason to visit, am I right?

FAQ

How much does a ticket to Nanzoin Temple cost?

As of March 2026, the admission ticket cost ¥500 for an adult, but free for children under 19.

What are the opening and closing hours?

Nanzoin Temple is open from 09:00-16:30 (last admission) every day.

However, the main hall and the 45th Pilgrimage Site are open all day.

How much time should I allow for the visit?

You should at least allow an hour and a half to fully explore the temple, Buddha’s Nirvana statue and the grounds without rushing.

Are there any stamps available at Nanzoin?

You can get a Goshuin, and it’s interesting to note that although the calligrapher usually also stamps your Goshuin book, at Nanzoin you can stamp your book yourself!

What if I come by car?

If you come by car, you’ll be happy to know that there are 3 free parking lots available.

Finally, here are a few pictures of the magnificent Nanzoin:

Still one of my favorite memories of Fukuoka, the magnificent Nanzoin Temple is a little gem that deserves a visit, if only to enjoy its serene beauty and impressive bronze reclining Buddha statue. The site is also the ideal place for a relaxing experience thanks to its location in the countryside.

So if you ever find yourself in Fukuoka, I’d say a visit to Nanzoin is worth it!

Are you traveling around the Chugoku region of Japan? Why not visit Okayama and its two must-see attractions?