Founded in 806 AD by the revered monk Kūkai (Kobo Daishi) immediately after his studies in China, Tōchōji Temple is the oldest Shingon temple on Kyushu Island. Later, it became the family temple and burial ground for the powerful Kuroda Clan, feudal lords of Fukuoka.

The temple is a masterpiece of traditional Japanese wooden architecture and features several key attractions:

• Fukuoka Great Buddha (Fukuoka Daibutsu): The largest seated wooden Buddha in Japan, 10.8 meters tall, weighing 30 tons, carved from a single Chinese black pine log.

• Five-Story Pagoda (Gojūnotō): A striking vermilion pagoda built in 2011 for the temple’s 1,200th anniversary.

• Six-Cornered Hall (Rokkakudō): A designated important property with revolving sutra shelves, symbolizing the spreading of Buddhist teachings.

• Walk Through Heaven and Hell: A dimly lit corridor with vivid artworks depicting Buddhist hells and pure realms, providing insight into beliefs about the afterlife.

• About a 10-minute walk from Tenjin Subway Station or a 15-minute taxi ride from Hakata Station.

• Wear comfortable shoes for walking inside the temple and allocate sufficient time to experience the Heaven and Hell corridor.

Admission fee:

• Most areas are free; some special buildings may have a small fee.

Opening time:

• 08:00 – 17:00