What other travelers are saying about Nanzo-in Temple
This is a relaxing, not-so-crowded attraction that has plenty to see. It’s just a short 5 minute walk from the main station.
The laying Buddha is a beautiful sight, its size is simply amazing. I came in the morning and there was barely any crowd, allowing me to stand and admire it without much distractions. Note there’s a very small visiting fee for the statue.
There’s also other attractions and statues to view, including a large towering warrior like one with a few trails that are quite enjoyable.
Nanzoin Sasaguri Temple is the first temple (Fudasho No. 1) of the Sasaguri Shikoku Sacred Ground pilgrimage route in Fukuoka Prefecture, Japan. It's famous for housing the world's largest bronze reclining Buddha statue, measuring 41 meters long, 11 meters tall, and weighing 300 tons. The temple serves as the starting point for the 88-temple Sasaguri pilgrimage, a miniature version of the famous Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage.
To reach Nanzoin Temple from Fukuoka city, take the JR Sasaguri Line from JR Hakata Station to Kidonanzoin-mae Station, which takes about 30 minutes. The temple is a 5-minute walk from the station. Alternatively, you can drive via Route 201, with parking available on-site. The temple is located in Sasaguri town, approximately 20 kilometers east of Fukuoka city center.
Nanzoin Temple is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM throughout the year, including holidays. Admission to the temple grounds and viewing the bronze reclining Buddha statue is free of charge. However, donations are welcomed and appreciated. Special prayer services and temple activities may have different schedules, so it's recommended to check the official website before visiting.
Besides the famous bronze reclining Buddha, Nanzoin Temple offers several attractions including beautiful temple buildings, traditional Japanese gardens, and numerous smaller Buddhist statues throughout the grounds. Visitors can participate in prayer services, purchase omamori (protective charms), collect goshuin (temple stamps), and explore the peaceful walking paths. The temple also serves as the starting point for the complete Sasaguri Shikoku 88 Temple pilgrimage route.
Yes, Nanzoin Temple is very suitable for international tourists and families with children. The temple grounds are wheelchair accessible and stroller-friendly with paved pathways. While most signage is in Japanese, the impressive reclining Buddha statue is self-explanatory and photogenic. The peaceful atmosphere, free admission, and easy train access from Fukuoka make it an ideal day trip destination for visitors of all ages interested in Japanese Buddhism and culture.
I had an absolutely wonderful time at Nanzo-in Temple! 🤩 The serene atmosphere and beautiful grounds were truly captivating. The reclining buddha is so amazing 😍 🧘♀️ I highly recommend a visit for a peaceful escape. ✨ Loved every moment! 😊
The reclining giant bronze Buddha may be the highlight but this temple has much more to offer. There are many other little shrines that blend into the mountain and use its natural features, like small caves and waterfalls.
The temple’s history dates back to 1886, when it was founded after a local monk received permission to recreate the Shikoku pilgrimage in the Sasaguri area. Over time, Nanzō-in grew into the central temple of this pilgrimage route, symbolizing compassion and rebirth within the Shingon Buddhist tradition. Its mountain setting was intentionally chosen to mirror the secluded environments where Buddhist practice traditionally flourished.
Highly recommend if you are in the area. There is plenty of parking not far away.
Nanzo-in Temple (南蔵院) is a peaceful and impressive stop just outside Fukuoka, best known for its enormous reclining Buddha, one of the largest bronze statues in the world. Walking through the temple grounds feels calm and reflective, with rows of smaller statues, forest paths, and quiet prayer areas leading up to the main figure.
The scale of the Buddha is genuinely breathtaking in person, far bigger than photos suggest, and the surrounding gardens make it a relaxing place to wander rather than just a quick photo stop. It’s easy to reach by train and well worth the short trip if you want something spiritual, scenic, and less crowded than central city temples.
A memorable and serene visit.
Amazing place, alot of interesting history with this temple from the Shingon branch of Buddhism, dress properly they will tell you to leave if your ware to much revealing clothing pictures of signs at the end, but they have signs everywhere.
Also be aware their are areas you don't supposed to shot photos, look for signs and respect.
Go there to explore alot of sort of hiden areas,
Also really great path to hike up the mountain , I would call it a mid level due to the incline but honestly if your an avid Hicker its easy just inclined the majority of the way up. But quite the beautiful hike.
