You can do a historic temple walk with several temples and shrines in short distance from each other  in Hakata’s Old Town. This area is between Hakata Station and Gofukumachi Station. Among the must stops are the Tochoji Temple and Kushida-Jinja.  

TOCHOJI TEMPLE 

One of the oldest temples in Japan that Monk Kobo established, the Tochoji Temple is located on the main road in Fukuoka. 

 

On the grounds also is the cemetery of the Kuroda Clan the Lords of the Fukuoka Domain. 

The Head temple of Shingon Buddhism in Kyushu, it has a 5 storey pagoda.

 

It is also known for the Great Buddha of Fukuoka. When you enter the temple grounds, the building in front houses “The Great Buddha of Fukuoka”. Located on the 2nd floor of the building is the largest wooden seated Buddha statue in Japan.  

Building that holds the Buddha.

Climb up these stairs.

Completed in 1992, this carving took 14 years and stands 10.8 meters high.An impressive sight, visiting the Great Buddha of Fukuoka is a must stop. It's so much better in person.

Photo of the photo Buddha

The ring of light stands at 16.1 meters.  If you would like to light incense sticks, first light a candle, then put on the stands then light 3 incense sticks from your candle. 

 Unfortunately, taking photos of the Buddha are not allowed. 

Nearest Train Station:  Gion Station 

Hours of Operation: 9:00AM-4:45 PM 

Entrance Fee: shrine grounds free; Buddha ¥50 

Cross the street towards the Tori Gate to walk to Kushinda Jinja

 

KUSHIDA JINJA

 

The oldest shrine in Fukuoka, the Kushida Jinja dates back to 757. 

Sake Barrels

Once you enter the temple grounds, make sure to stop and look up to see  the Chinese  Zodiacs in the ceiling of the Shrine gate.

A small shrine, it is home to the Hakata Gion Yamakasa Matsuri. This big festival is celebrated in July where they race kakiyama and kazariyama floats. 

 

Kazariyama Float

More than 10 m or 32 ft tall float on display in the back.

Nearest Train Station:  Gion Station

Hours of Operation: 24 hrs

Entrance Fee: Free

 

Website: FESTIVAL 

MANGYOJI TEMPLE 

Chanced upon the Mangyoji on my temple walk and was intrigued by the statue and interesting door detail.