
Famous Pilgrimage Routes & Religious Sites in Fukuoka, Fukuoka, Japan
1. Dazaifu Tenmangu
A Shinto shrine dedicated to Sugawara Michizane, the deity of learning. Known for its beautiful cherry blossoms and authentic local food.
- Historical Significance: Built in 919 AD, it is one of the oldest shrines in Japan
- Cherry Blossom Viewing: Visitors can enjoy over 600 sakura trees during springtime.
- Learning Sanctuary: The site is considered a holy place for students seeking academic success
2. Kushida Shrine
An ancient Shinto shrine located in Dazaifu city, famed as the guardian of Hakata and a symbol of Fukuoka.
- Hakata's Protector: Legend says it was established to protect Hakata from evil spirits
- Annual Fire Festival: The annual fire festival, 'Yabusame', is a traditional archery event using live horses.
- Architectural Beauty: A beautiful example of traditional Japanese architecture and garden design
3. Korakuen Garden
One of Japan's three most beautiful landscaped gardens, featuring a blend of natural and artificial elements.
- Historic Significance: Constructed in 1795 as the residence of a feudal lord
- Seasonal Beauty: Each season showcases unique blooms and colors, including cherry blossoms, azaleas, and autumn leaves.
- Religious Site Integration: Incorporates a small Shinto shrine dedicated to the god of agriculture
4. Hojo-ji Temple
A peaceful temple offering beautiful gardens and scenic views of the surrounding mountains.
- Historical Significance: Founded by the famous Buddhist monk Nichiren in 1271
- Nature Immersion: Enjoy a serene walk through the temple's lush gardens and tranquil pond.
- Scenic Viewpoint: The temple offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains, especially during autumn foliage season
5. Shofuku-ji Temple
A picturesque temple located on Mount Koba, offering a peaceful escape and panoramic views of the city.
- Historical Significance: Constructed in 1607 as one of Fukuoka's five great Zen temples
- Mountain Retreat: Enjoy a peaceful and calming atmosphere at this mountain temple.
- Panoramic Views: The temple offers breathtaking views of Fukuoka city and the surrounding mountains
6. Kaho-ji Temple
A small but charming temple known for its stunning autumn foliage and scenic mountain views.
- Historical Significance: Established in 1607 by the founder of Fukuoka's five great Zen temples
- Scenic Autumn Beauty: Famous for its stunning autumn foliage, especially maple trees.
- Mountain Retreat: Enjoy a peaceful and calming atmosphere at this mountain temple.
7. Seigan-ji Temple
A beautiful Zen temple nestled in the mountains, offering tranquility and stunning landscapes.
- Historical Significance: Established in 1607 by the founder of Fukuoka's five great Zen temples
- Scenic Mountain Retreat: Enjoy a peaceful and calming atmosphere at this mountain temple.
- Nature Immersion: Experience the beauty of Japanese alpine landscapes, including waterfalls and forests
8. Mjoe-do Temple
A Korean-style Buddhist temple offering a unique cultural experience and stunning views of the city.
- Cultural Diversity: One of the few Korean-style temples in Japan, featuring Korean architecture and art.
- Urban Scenery: Offers stunning views of Fukuoka city from its hilltop location.
- Peaceful Atmosphere: A peaceful and tranquil place to escape the bustling city
9. Chikushi-jinja Shrine
An ancient shrine dedicated to the goddesses of medicine and childbirth, offering a unique spiritual experience.
- Historical Significance: One of Japan's oldest shrines, dating back over 1300 years.
- Spiritual Healing: Visitors can seek spiritual healing and guidance from the deities.
- Traditional Festivals: Participate in traditional events such as the Shrine Maiden Festival (June) or the Kunchi Festival (October)
10. Ono-jinja Shrine
An ancient shrine dedicated to the god of thunder and lightning, offering a unique spiritual experience.
- Historical Significance: One of Japan's oldest shrines, dating back over 1300 years.
- Thunder Worship: Visitors can seek protection from the deity during thunderstorms.
- Traditional Festivals: Participate in traditional events such as the Shrine Maiden Festival (June) or the Kunchi Festival (October)
11. Kokuritsu-kyuko Hakata Machiya Kaikanshitsu
A historical museum housed in an authentic Kyoto machiya (townhouse), showcasing the culture and history of Fukuoka.
- Cultural Education: Learn about the history, culture, and traditions of Fukuoka through exhibits and demonstrations.
- Authentic Architecture: Experience traditional Japanese architecture in a beautifully preserved townhouse.
- Local Craftsmanship: Discover local crafts, such as pottery and textiles, showcasing the skills of Fukuoka artisans
12. Nengajo Postcard Museum
A unique museum dedicated to traditional New Year's postcards, showcasing their history and evolution.
- Cultural Preservation: Preserves and promotes the tradition of sending New Year's postcards.
- Historical Insight: Gain insights into Japanese culture, history, and design through these postcards.
- Interactive Experience: Design your own New Year's postcard to send to friends or family
13. Fukuoka City Museum
A comprehensive museum showcasing the history, culture, and art of Fukuoka and the surrounding region.
- Cultural Education: Learn about the history, culture, and traditions of Fukuoka through exhibits and demonstrations.
- Art Appreciation: Discover local art, including pottery, textiles, and paintings.
- Archaeological Insight: Explore archaeological finds from the Kofun period (3rd to 6th centuries)
14. Fukuoka Art Museum
A modern art museum showcasing contemporary and traditional Japanese art, with a focus on local artists.
- Art Appreciation: Discover contemporary and traditional Japanese art, with a focus on local artists.
- Temporary Exhibitions: Enjoy temporary exhibitions featuring works by renowned artists from Japan and around the world.
- Architectural Beauty: Experience a beautiful example of contemporary Japanese architecture
15. Fukuoka Asian Art Museum
A museum dedicated to Asian art and culture, featuring collections from across Asia, including China, Korea, and Southeast Asia.
- Cultural Diversity: Explore the richness of Asian art and culture through diverse exhibits.
- Historical Insight: Gain insights into the history, traditions, and artistic techniques of Asian cultures.
- Temporary Exhibitions: Enjoy temporary exhibitions featuring works by renowned Asian artists