Tochoji Temple

Tochoji Temple is a historic Buddhist temple in the Hakata area of Fukuoka. Just a short walk from Gion station. It was built in 806 by the famous monk Kobo Daishi after his return from China. It is one of the oldest Shingon Buddhist temples in Japan. The temple is best known for its peaceful grounds, the impressive Fukuoka Great Buddha and its long connection to Japanese history and culture.

Tochoji Temple

Photo by: PIXTA/ ai

Kukai (Kobo Daishi) built the temple hoping to spread the teachings of Esoteric Buddhism across Japan. The temple was damaged several times during wars, including the Mongol invasions. It was still rebuilt and continued to play an important role in Fukuoka’s history.

During the Edo period, Tochoji Temple became the family temple of the powerful Kuroda clan, who ruled the Fukuoka Domain. The graves of the second, third and eighth lords of the Kuroda family can still be found within the peaceful temple grounds. Today, the temple remains a place of worship and a well-known historical landmark.

The Famous Great Buddha

Photo by: PIXTA/ チリーズ

The highlight for many visitors is the Fukuoka Great Buddha, the largest seated wooden Buddha. Behind the statue is a dark underground passage that offers a memorable part of the visit. After passing displays that describe Buddhist ideas about right and wrong, visitors walk through complete darkness while following a handrail. The experience is meant to encourage quiet reflection. It symbolizes moving from darkness and uncertainty towards light, wisdom and inner peace.

Temple Grounds

Photo by: Abhijit Sen

Walking around Tochoji Temple gives visitors the chance to see several beautiful buildings. The impressive five-story pagoda is one of the first things that catches the eye. At the same time, the peaceful Rokkakudo Hall is popular for its unique hexagonal shape and revolving shelves that house Buddhist scriptures. The temple’s Main Hall houses the historic Thousand-Armed Kannon statue, an Important Cultural Property from the Heian period.

Tochoji Temple is also famous for its traditional festivals. Every February, the temple celebrates the Setsubun Festival, one of the oldest festivals in Fukuoka. It attracts large numbers of people who come to pray for good luck and protection from misfortune. During the festival, people dress as the seven gods of fortune and colorful red and blue demons take part in the popular bean-throwing ceremony.