Nanzoin
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Nanzo-in is a Shingon Buddhist temple in Sasaguri, Fukuoka, Japan. It is notable for its bronze statue of a reclining Buddha, said to be the largest bronze statue in the world.
attractions: 南蔵院 涅槃像, Soshodaiji Temple - Sasaguri Shikoku Sacred Site 85th Temple, 南蔵院寺務所, 南蔵院仲見世通り, restaurants: 吉田屋, あげもんのさかえや
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Nanzo-in is a Shingon Buddhist temple in Sasaguri, Fukuoka, Japan. It is notable for its bronze statue of a reclining Buddha, said to be the largest bronze statue in the world.
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Nanzo-in is a Shingon Buddhist temple in Sasaguri, Fukuoka, Japan. It is notable for its bronze statue of a reclining Buddha, said to be the largest bronze statue in the world. Nanzo-in was originally located on Mount Kōya, but local anti-Buddhist authorities threatened to destroy the temple in 1886. Public outcry lead to a decade-long effort to have the temple transferred to Sasaguri. It was moved in 1899, under the leadership of Sasaguri priest, Hayashi Satoshiun. Nanzo-in is the main location among the 88 temples that make up the Sasaguri pilgrimage route, one of the three famous walking pilgrimages in Japan. Today, the temple and its surrounding grounds receive more than 1 million visitors annually. A chief priest of Nanzo-in once won the lottery after laying his ticket next to a statue of Daikoku. The temple claims that others who have made a similar effort have also won the lottery, bringing the temple associations with luck and lottery tickets. The reclining Buddha statue, known as either Nehanzo or Shaka Nehan ("Nirvana") is 41 meters long, 11 meters high, and weighs nearly 300 tons. The statue depicts Buddha at the moment of death, or entrance into nirvana. The interior holds ashes of Buddha and two Buddhist adherents, Ānanda and Maudgalyayana. Those relics were a gift from Myanmar as thanks for the sect's donations of medical supplies to children in both Nepal and Myanmar. In 1995, 1,300 monks from Myanmar and Nepal attended the unveiling of the reclining Buddha statue. Inside the sculpture, sand from each of the 88 shrines that make up the Shikoku pilgrimage are stored below bricks within a narrow hallway. Every year, hundreds of Buddhists come together to clean the statue using bamboo leaves tied to five-meter poles. Nanzo-in has 4,315 nokotsudo, places where bones of the deceased are stored. The temple has a non-traditional fee structure for housing remains that is open to all sects of Buddhism, as well as to Shinto remains. This is aligned with many other Buddhist temples that rely on a monthly fee for housing the bones of the deceased, which are then disposed of after a set period of time. Nanzo-in has one fee, which covers 200 years. *Source Wikipedia
SachanonhSachanonh
20
Nanzoin Temple, located in Sasaguri, Fukuoka Prefecture, is a remarkable destination that offers visitors a blend of spiritual significance and natural beauty. The temple is renowned for housing the world’s largest bronze reclining Buddha statue, known as Nehanzo, which measures approximately 41 meters in length and 11 meters in height.  The temple complex is nestled amidst lush greenery, providing a serene atmosphere ideal for reflection and exploration. Visitors can wander through moss-covered stone paths, cross charming red bridges, and discover numerous smaller statues and shrines that dot the landscape. The tranquil environment is further enhanced by the gentle sounds of flowing water from nearby streams and waterfalls. Accessing Nanzoin Temple is convenient; it’s a short train ride from Fukuoka City. From Hakata Station, take the JR Sasaguri Line to Kido Nanzoin-mae Station, a journey of about 26 minutes. Upon arrival, the temple is a brief walk from the station.  While the temple is open to visitors throughout the day, it’s advisable to visit during the morning or late afternoon to fully appreciate its peaceful ambiance. Weekdays are generally less crowded, offering a more intimate experience. There is no admission fee to enter the temple grounds; however, certain areas may request a small donation. In summary, Nanzoin Temple is a must-visit for those traveling to Fukuoka. Its impressive reclining Buddha, coupled with the serene natural surroundings, provides a unique and enriching experience that beautifully encapsulates the essence of Japanese spirituality and culture.
Manpreet SinghManpreet Singh
10
We visited Nanzoin Temple at the end of September 2024. Took the JR Fukuhokuyutaka line from Hakata Station to Kidonanzoin Mae station (first time seeing bathrooms on a train in Japan). Leading up to the temple grounds, you pass by a musical bridge where you're supposed to be able to "play" the notes by hitting them with something. Didn't see any stick or rod to use so just tapped it with my finger. Not very audible (probably better if they had a wooden or metal rod to use). This specific temple grounds has a bunch of restrictions on things like wearing revealing clothing. It was super hot (30°+) but I decided to wear pants instead of shorts. They also have restrictions on taking pictures in some areas. The signs aren't very obvious until you are right up next to them so just keep a look out for them. You're also not supposed to eat or drink while walking around. The big draw for the temple is the giant reclining buddha located on the 2nd level of the temple. Little did we know that they were doing construction at the time so the usual front view of the buddha is obstructed. We probably spent a little less than 2 hours exploring the temple grounds. There are caves and rock bridges. They also have a place to buy various lucky charms. They did have a large covered sitting area at the reclining buddha area (I think it's to help prevent heat exhaustion) but it was still very hot and humid. It might be nice here when it's a bit cooler and when construction is complete.
Penny Rusty SophiePenny Rusty Sophie
00
First of all if you visit this Temple think about being respectful. There are many signs with restrictions, please pay attention to them. This Temple is considered to be a power spot and also a place to receive luck and prosperity. Admission is Free. There' are 2 small parking lots adjacent to the entrance, One is free and the other is paid ¥300. I drove there, no comment about the train station. There aren't any signs about foreigners being restricted. I walked in with no issues. The Temple itself is breathtaking, too many statues to name and the walk is interesting. It was very cold when I went, the week before Christmas on a Friday afternoon 2023. The Temple closes at 4:30pm, and there is a dress code. No miniskirts, short pants, cutoff tops or showing of any tattoos. You will be supplied with ways to cover them or be asked to leave. Recommend not to go with large groups, break the groups down to avoid any unpleasant moments. The reclining Buddha is located at the top of the hill with a long walk but worth it. Views of countless statues will get your attention and make you gasp. The view of the Reclining Buddha will definitely raise your eyebrows and make you say "wow!" There are hot beverages served near the Buddha and charms can be purchased throughout the Temple. Highly recommended to visit this Temple. It would be advised to dress very warm if going during the winter months. There aren't many places to hide from the cold.
Jay JohnsonJay Johnson
60
I went about 2 weeks ago. First of all, when I arrived at the train station there, the place was amazing. The are was surrounded by nature and the mountains looked pretty. Then, the bridge going to the starting point of where you're going to the reclining Buddha has a fun little xylophone thingy which is cute haha. Onto the way to the Buddha, the walk was alright as you can see many little statues, more nature, the breathtaking scene, and shops. A heads up for those planning to visit here, don't wear shorts or any clothes that reveals too much skin since it's not allowed and they will make you buy and wear a cloak (?). Tripods, selfie sticks, and drones aren't allowed as well (since I travel alone I just place my phone on the floor leaning on a wall or smth 🥲). Before you could see the Buddha, there are shops that you would pass by. At least buy 1 token just as a souvenir (I bought 1 of those random things that's in the boxes). Then, when you climb up the short flight of stairs, there you see the giant reclining Buddha which, in my opinion, is surprising. It really is big and wonderful. You could pray there and eat ice cream (delicious matcha+milk). I say it's worth a visit here if you really like nature and to see the culture here^^
Samantha AbadierSamantha Abadier
20
Impressive must-see if you are visiting Fukuoka! Give yourself an hour or two to really explore this land. Not only will you find the resting Buddha, you'll find thousands of Buddhas along various paths to wander. You can even go deep into the lush forests, stairs lead the way to dirt paths. The smallest Buddha I found was the size of my pinky. Beware of spiders and running into their webs. Once night falls, the mosquitoes come out to play. The temple is a short 5 minute walk from the Kidonanzoinmae Station. Shops that sell souvenirs, ice cream and other goodies are open from 9AM-5PM. The temple is free to enter and free to roam around 24/7. We got there just before dusk. No one else was there on this Sunday. Google said it was more lively than usual around 5PM. I guess everyone bounces when the shops close. Beautiful in real life. I stated in amazement at the jade colored bronze statue. Each of the Buddhas along the paths have unique faces. Really something special.
Jenae LienJenae Lien
30
Nearby Attractions Of Nanzoin
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+81 92-947-7195
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nanzoin.net
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