Nanzoin Temple Fukuoka: Giant Reclining Buddha & Visitor Guide

What Is Nanzoin Temple

Nanzoin Temple (南蔵院) is a Shingon Buddhist temple in Sasaguri, a small town in the hills east of Fukuoka city. It is best known for its enormous bronze reclining Buddha statue — the Nehanzo (涅槃像) — which according to the official site measures 41 meters long, 11 meters tall, and weighs 300 tons. The temple claims it is the largest bronze reclining Buddha in the world.

Beyond the statue, Nanzoin is the first stop (第1番札所) on the Sasaguri Shikoku 88 pilgrimage (篠栗四国八十八ヶ所), a 44-kilometer walking route through the Sasaguri hills that replicates the famous 88-temple pilgrimage of Shikoku. The temple grounds spread across a forested hillside with 500 Arhat statues, a Shichifukujin (Seven Gods of Fortune) tunnel shrine, and several smaller halls.

For visitors based in Fukuoka, Nanzoin is one of the easiest day trips available — a 20-minute train ride from Hakata Station on the JR Sasaguri Line.

The Reclining Buddha: Nehanzo

Dimensions and Construction

The reclining Buddha at Nanzoin depicts the historical Buddha at the moment of entering Nirvana (Parinirvana) — his final passing from earthly life. The pose is serene: lying on his right side with eyes closed.

According to the official site, the statue is 41 meters long, 11 meters tall, and weighs approximately 300 tons. It is cast in bronze. The scale is difficult to appreciate from photographs — standing next to the feet of the statue gives the clearest sense of its size.

Five colored strings (五色の紐) hang from the Buddha's hand. Visitors hold these strings to receive a symbolic connection to the Buddha's blessing — a popular ritual, especially among first-time visitors.

Inside the Statue

According to the official site, you can enter the interior of the reclining Buddha for ¥500 (adults) or ¥300 (elementary school children). Inside, the temple houses relics — reportedly remains of the Buddha (Shakyamuni), Ananda, and Moggallana — donated by the Myanmar Buddhist Council.

The interior is a solemn space. Photography restrictions apply inside. The visit takes about 10-15 minutes.

Other Highlights on the Temple Grounds

The 500 Arhat Statues

Scattered across the hillside behind the main temple buildings, 500 Rakan (阿羅漢) statues line the paths and stairs. Each statue is unique — different poses, expressions, and gestures representing enlightened disciples of the Buddha. Walking through them adds 20-30 minutes to your visit and takes you through the quieter, forested part of the grounds.

The hillside involves stairs and uneven paths. Wear comfortable shoes.

Shichifukujin Tunnel and Daikokuten Shrine

A tunnel near the temple entrance houses statues of the Shichifukujin (七福神) — the Seven Gods of Fortune. Walking through the tunnel leads to several small shrines, including one dedicated to Daikokuten (大黒天), the god of wealth.

The Daikokuten shrine has a reputation for bringing lottery luck. According to local lore, the temple's chief priest won a lottery jackpot, and the story has drawn a steady stream of visitors hoping for similar fortune. Whether or not you believe in lottery luck, the tunnel shrine is atmospheric and worth a detour.

Hours, Admission, and Getting There

Hours and Admission Fees

According to the official site, Nanzoin Temple is open daily:

Facility	Hours	Admission
Temple grounds	8:30-17:00 (last entry 16:30)	Free
Reclining Buddha interior	9:00-16:30	¥500 adults, ¥300 children

The temple grounds — including the exterior of the reclining Buddha, the 500 Arhat statues, and the Shichifukujin tunnel — are free. Only entering inside the statue requires a fee.

No reservation is needed. The temple is open every day with no regular closure days.

From Hakata Station by JR Sasaguri Line

From Hakata Station, take the JR Sasaguri Line (篠栗線) to Kido-Nanzoin-mae Station (城戸南蔵院前駅). The ride takes approximately 20 minutes and costs ¥240 one way.

Kido-Nanzoin-mae Station was built specifically to serve the temple. From the station, it is a 5-minute walk to the temple entrance. Follow the signs — the path is well-marked.

Check JR train schedules before visiting, especially on weekends, as the Sasaguri Line runs less frequently outside peak hours.

By car, the temple is approximately 30 minutes from Fukuoka IC. Parking is available on-site for ¥500 per day.

Tips for Visiting Nanzoin

• Allow 1.5-2 hours for a thorough visit including the reclining Buddha interior, Arhat statues, and tunnel shrine.
• Wear comfortable shoes. The temple grounds are spread across a hillside with stairs and uneven paths, especially around the Arhat statues.
• Visit early morning on weekdays to avoid crowds. Weekends draw more visitors, especially around the reclining Buddha.
• Hold the five colored strings hanging from the Buddha's hand — a simple ritual that connects you symbolically to the Buddha's blessing.
• Remove shoes before entering buildings. Photography is prohibited inside some areas including the statue interior.
• Don't skip the hillside. Many visitors see only the reclining Buddha and leave. The 500 Arhat statues and forested paths behind the main temple are quieter and worth the walk.
• Food options are limited at the temple itself. Eat before or after your visit in Hakata or at Sasaguri Station.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Nanzoin Temple free to visit?

The temple grounds, the exterior of the reclining Buddha, the 500 Arhat statues, and the Shichifukujin tunnel are all free. Only entering inside the reclining Buddha statue costs ¥500 for adults and ¥300 for children. No reservation is required.

How do I get to Nanzoin Temple from Hakata Station?

Take the JR Sasaguri Line from Hakata Station to Kido-Nanzoin-mae Station — approximately 20 minutes, ¥240 one way. The temple is a 5-minute walk from the station. Check train schedules on weekends as service is less frequent.

How long should I spend at Nanzoin Temple?

Allow 1.5-2 hours to see the reclining Buddha (exterior and interior), walk through the 500 Arhat statues on the hillside, and visit the Shichifukujin tunnel. If you only visit the reclining Buddha, 30-45 minutes is sufficient.

Can I visit Nanzoin Temple as a day trip from Fukuoka?

Yes. Nanzoin is a 20-minute train ride from Hakata Station, making it one of the easiest half-day trips from Fukuoka. You can visit the temple in the morning and return to the city for lunch.