About Nanzoin Temple
Nanzoin Temple is a special head temple of the Koyasan Shingon sect located in Sasaguri-machi, Kasuya-gun, Fukuoka Prefecture. Established in 1899 (Meiji 32), it is revered as the head temple of the Sasaguri Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage.
Its most notable feature is the bronze reclining Buddha statue, completed in 1995, measuring 41 meters in length, 11 meters in height, and weighing approximately 300 tons. This statue depicts the reclining Buddha and is one of the largest bronze reclining Buddha statues in the world.
Points to Note During Your Visit
Highlights of the Reclining Buddha Statue
The reclining Buddha statue recreates the peaceful expression on the Buddha’s face at the time of his death, and its serene features and immense size are truly awe-inspiring. At the base of the statue is an inscription detailing the origin of the reclining Buddha statue, recounting the anecdote that it was erected after the head priest won a large sum of money in the lottery.
Visitors can freely walk around the reclining Buddha statue and view it from various angles. In particular, the soles of the feet are adorned with auspicious Buddhist patterns, and the intricate craftsmanship is astonishing when viewed up close.
Columbarium and Temple Facilities
The temple grounds feature a modern columbarium capable of accommodating over 4,000 remains. There are also multiple worship facilities, including the main hall, the Daishi Hall, and a statue of Fudo Myoo, each offering opportunities for worship.
A walking path dotted with stone statues of the Seven Lucky Gods is also present, creating a space where one can refresh both mind and body by leisurely strolling through the temple grounds.
Proper Way to Visit
- Bow at the temple gate before entering.
- Cleanse your hands and mouth at the water basin.
- Pay your respects to the main deity in the main hall.
- Join your hands in prayer before the reclining Buddha statue.
- If you have a wish, pray at the feet of the reclining Buddha statue.
Benefits
Prayer for Financial Luck and Lottery Winnings
Nanzoin Temple is nationally famous as a “temple where you can win the lottery.” Many visitors come to pray for improved financial luck and lottery winnings, drawing on the large lottery winnings of the head priest, which provided the funding for the construction of the reclining Buddha statue.
In fact, many reports of people winning the lottery after visiting the temple have been received, and a constant stream of people return to offer their thanks. You can often see people holding up lottery tickets and praying at the feet of the reclining Buddha statue.
Other Benefits
- Family Safety and Business Prosperity: Protection through Shingon Esoteric Buddhism prayers
- Healing from Illness: Prayers to Yakushi Nyorai (Medicine Buddha)
- Academic Success: Worship of Monju Bosatsu (Manjushri Bodhisattva)
- Exorcism and Good Fortune: Exorcism by Fudo Myoo (Acala)
Access Information
Access by Train and Bus
- From JR Sasaguri Station: Get off at “Minamizoin-mae” bus stop (Nishitetsu Bus), approximately 3 minutes on foot (bus ride approximately 5 minutes)
- From JR Hakata Station: Approximately 25 minutes on the Sasaguri Line, then take a bus or taxi from Sasaguri Station
Access by Car
- Approximately 20 minutes from Kyushu Expressway “Fukuoka IC”
- Approximately 15 minutes from Kyushu Expressway “Koga IC”
- Free parking available (accommodates approximately 500 regular cars)
Visiting Hours and Admission Fee
- Visiting Hours: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Open year-round)
- Admission Fee: Free
- Location: 1035 Sasaguri, Sasaguri-machi, Kasuya-gun, Fukuoka Prefecture
Nearby Attractions
Nanzoin Temple is part of the Sasaguri Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage, and other temples are scattered throughout the surrounding area. If you have time, we recommend experiencing the “Ohenro” pilgrimage, visiting multiple temples while walking along the lush mountain paths of Sasaguri.
Especially during the cherry blossom season in spring and the autumn foliage season, the temple grounds are beautifully colored and bustling with many tourists.
