Nanzoin

In the town of Sasaguri in Fukuoka, Nanzoin is the head temple and first stop of the Sasaguri pilgrimage and a special head temple of the Koyasan Shingon school. Above all it is famous for its bronze reclining Buddha, one of the largest in the world at 41 meters long, 11 meters high, and about 300 tons in weight.

Thanks to a tale that a former head priest won a large lottery prize, it became known across the country as a power spot for wealth and good fortune. Inside the reclining Buddha runs a sand walking path holding sand from the eighty eight sacred sites of Shikoku, and walking it is said to grant the same merit as the full pilgrimage.

Highlights

- The overwhelming bronze reclining Buddha, among the largest in the world - The sand walking path inside the statue, said to grant the same merit as the Shikoku pilgrimage - The Daikoku hall, known for prayers for wealth and lottery success - The solemn presence of the head temple of the Sasaguri pilgrimage

Enjoying the Seasons

Cherry blossoms in spring, fresh greenery in early summer, and foliage in autumn wrap the grounds in lush nature through the year. The wide precinct is dotted with many statues and halls, and simply strolling among them brings calm to the heart.

Access and Basic Information

- Location: 1035 Sasaguri, Sasaguri, Kasuya District, Fukuoka - Access: About 3 minutes on foot from Kido Nanzoinmae Station on the JR Fukuhoku Yutaka Line. About 15 minutes by car from Fukuoka IC. Free parking available - Hours: Daytime - Admission: Free to enter the grounds, viewing inside the reclining Buddha may require a fee

A Quick Tip

If you wish for wealth luck, do not forget to pray at the Daikoku hall. The grounds are spacious, so allow plenty of time to wander among the reclining Buddha and the many other sights.