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Giant Wooden Buddha at Tocho-ji Temple

Discover Fukuoka's iconic Giant Buddha at Tocho-ji Temple, a serene escape with rich history and cultural significance in the heart of the city.

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The Giant Wooden Buddha, housed within Tocho-ji Temple in Fukuoka, is one of Japan's largest wooden seated Buddha statues. Completed in 1992, the statue stands over 10 meters tall and weighs 30 tons, offering visitors a solemn and sacred experience.

A brief summary to Giant wood buddha

  • 2-4 Gokushomachi, Fukuoka, Gokushomachi, Hakata Ward, Fukuoka, 812-0037, JP
  • +8192-291-4459

Local tips

  • Take a moment to appreciate the intricate details of the carvings on the Giant Buddha, including the smaller Buddha statues in its halo.
  • Experience the 'hell and paradise tour' inside the Buddha's pedestal for a unique perspective on Buddhist teachings.
  • Visit the temple in early spring to witness the beautiful cherry blossoms surrounding the grounds.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Hakata Station, Tocho-ji Temple is approximately a 10-minute walk northwest. Head north from the station, following signs for Tocho-ji. The temple is located on a relatively small and peaceful street, off the busy Taihaku-dori street. There are no tolls or specific access fees for walking.

  • Public Transport

    The closest subway station to Tocho-ji Temple is Gion Station on the Hakata Subway Line. From Hakata Station, take the subway one stop to Gion Station; the fare is ¥210. From Gion Station, it is a short 1-minute walk to the temple. A Fukuoka City Subway One-Day Ticket costs ¥640 for adults and ¥320 for children, allowing unlimited rides on all subway lines.

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Discover more about Giant wood buddha

Tocho-ji Temple, located in Fukuoka City, is home to the Fukuoka Daibutsu, a giant wooden seated Buddha statue that stands as one of the largest of its kind in Japan. Completed in 1992 after four years of construction, the statue measures 10.8 meters in height and weighs 30 tons. The sheer size and intricate carvings, from the Buddha's serene expression to the detailed halo adorned with smaller Buddha images, inspire awe and reverence. Tocho-ji Temple was founded in 806 by Kobo Daishi (Kukai), a revered monk who introduced Shingon Buddhism to Japan. The temple was initially built near the coast but was later moved to its current location by Kuroda Tadayuki, a local feudal lord, in the 17th century. Tocho-ji became the Kuroda family temple, and the graves of lords Tadayuki, Mitsuyuki, and Harutaka are located on the grounds. Visitors can also explore a unique "hell and paradise tour" within the statue's pedestal. A dark passage features paintings depicting the suffering of sinners, while touching a wheel of Buddha in the darkness is said to grant passage to paradise. Other highlights of Tocho-ji Temple include a five-story vermillion pagoda, a nationally important cultural property, and a revolving bookcase filled with holy scriptures.

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