T艒ch艒-ji Temple, Fukuoka
T艒ch艒-ji Temple is one of Fukuoka鈥檚 most historically significant and spiritually serene landmarks. Founded in 806 by the revered Buddhist monk K奴kai (also known as K艒b艒 Daishi), it is considered the oldest Shingon temple on the island of Kyushu. Located in the heart of the Hakata district, the temple has long served as a center of esoteric Buddhist practice and a peaceful retreat amidst the city鈥檚 bustle. Though the original structure was destroyed and rebuilt multiple times, today鈥檚 temple complex reflects a blend of tradition and resilience.
One of the main attractions at T艒ch艒-ji is the massive wooden statue of the seated Buddha, known as the Fukuoka Daibutsu. Completed in 1992 after nearly a decade of carving, this figure stands at 10.8 meters tall and is one of the largest seated wooden Buddhas in Japan. Visitors can admire its calm expression and graceful detailing, then pass behind the statue through a pitch-black tunnel designed to symbolize the journey through darkness toward enlightenment鈥攁 brief but impactful spiritual experience.
The temple grounds also feature a beautiful five-story pagoda, completed in 2011, which adds a striking vertical element to the otherwise horizontal layout. The vibrant red structure stands in stark contrast to the surrounding greenery and traditional buildings, making it a favorite photo spot. Nearby, a cemetery houses the graves of the Kuroda clan, former rulers of the Fukuoka domain, further emphasizing the site鈥檚 historical depth.
T艒ch艒-ji is easily accessible from Gion Station and offers a quiet, reflective atmosphere that appeals to history buffs, photographers, and spiritual seekers alike. With its centuries-old heritage, sacred artifacts, and contemplative spaces, the temple provides a meaningful counterbalance to Fukuoka鈥檚 energetic urban life and serves as a reminder of the city鈥檚 deep cultural roots.
One of the main attractions at T艒ch艒-ji is the massive wooden statue of the seated Buddha, known as the Fukuoka Daibutsu. Completed in 1992 after nearly a decade of carving, this figure stands at 10.8 meters tall and is one of the largest seated wooden Buddhas in Japan. Visitors can admire its calm expression and graceful detailing, then pass behind the statue through a pitch-black tunnel designed to symbolize the journey through darkness toward enlightenment鈥攁 brief but impactful spiritual experience.
The temple grounds also feature a beautiful five-story pagoda, completed in 2011, which adds a striking vertical element to the otherwise horizontal layout. The vibrant red structure stands in stark contrast to the surrounding greenery and traditional buildings, making it a favorite photo spot. Nearby, a cemetery houses the graves of the Kuroda clan, former rulers of the Fukuoka domain, further emphasizing the site鈥檚 historical depth.
T艒ch艒-ji is easily accessible from Gion Station and offers a quiet, reflective atmosphere that appeals to history buffs, photographers, and spiritual seekers alike. With its centuries-old heritage, sacred artifacts, and contemplative spaces, the temple provides a meaningful counterbalance to Fukuoka鈥檚 energetic urban life and serves as a reminder of the city鈥檚 deep cultural roots.
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T艒ch艒-ji Temple on Map
Sight Name: T艒ch艒-ji Temple
Sight Location: Fukuoka, Japan (See walking tours in Fukuoka)
Sight Type: Religious
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Sight Location: Fukuoka, Japan (See walking tours in Fukuoka)
Sight Type: Religious
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Walking Tours in Fukuoka, Japan
Create Your Own Walk in Fukuoka
Creating your own self-guided walk in Fukuoka is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Fukuoka Introduction Walking Tour
Fukuoka, the largest city on Japan鈥檚 Kyushu Island, blends modern urban energy with a rich historical backdrop. Known for its friendly atmosphere and laid-back pace, the city offers visitors a mix of bustling shopping districts, historic temples, scenic parks, and vibrant food culture. Neighborhoods like Tenjin and Hakata showcase both sleek department stores and centuries-old shrines, while... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.3 Km or 2.1 Miles
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.3 Km or 2.1 Miles