This translation was prepared with AI assistance and reviewed by the editorial team.
Kanzeonji is an ancient Dazaifu temple known for a National Treasure bronze bell and a collection of large Buddhist statues. In autumn, ginkgo, Chinese tallow and maple trees add colour to a quieter historical walk away from the busiest streets around Dazaifu Tenmangu.
The grounds are free and open for general visits, while the Treasure Hall has paid admission and weekday-dependent hours. Plan separately for foliage-only walking and for viewing the statues.
Key information
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Address | 5-6-1 Kanzeonji, Dazaifu, Fukuoka |
| Typical foliage | Mid to late November; varies by tree and weather |
| Temple grounds | Free, general access |
| Treasure Hall | Adult ¥600; high-school/university ¥400; younger students ¥150 |
| Hours | Mon–Thu 9:00–16:30; Fri–Sun 9:00–17:00 |
| Access | Mahoroba bus stop outside; 10 minutes from Nishitetsu Gojo |
When to see the autumn colour
Mid to late November is a useful annual guide, but the trees do not turn together. Yellow ginkgo can contrast with red Chinese tallow and maple leaves on the same visit. A warm autumn can delay colour, so do not fix a 2026 peak date in August. Check local conditions after November begins. Kanzeonji is not promoted as a regular foliage illumination venue; daylight is the normal way to see its trees and historic buildings.
National Treasure bell and Buddhist statues
The bell in the grounds is a National Treasure and is regarded as one of Japan's oldest surviving temple bells, comparable in age to the bell at Myoshinji in Kyoto. The Treasure Hall displays 16 Buddhist statues designated Important Cultural Properties, dating mainly from the Heian to Kamakura periods. Several are monumental, including a roughly five-metre Batō Kannon. Follow on-site photography instructions inside the hall.
Treasure Hall hours and admission
Since March 30, 2026, the Treasure Hall opens Monday–Thursday 9:00–16:30, last entry 16:00, and Friday–Sunday 9:00–17:00, last entry 16:30. Admission is ¥600 adults, ¥400 high-school and university students and ¥150 elementary and junior-high students. It is normally open year-round, but temporary closure and exhibition conditions should be checked. Arrive with at least an hour rather than just before last entry.
Access and a Dazaifu history route
The Mahoroba community bus stops at Kanzeonji-mae. Nishitetsu Gojo Station is about ten minutes on foot and Dazaifu Station about twenty minutes. The car park has about 45 spaces. Kaidanin immediately west is now a separate temple, so follow each site's own guidance. A half-day route can continue to the Dazaifu Government Office ruins, Dazaifu Exhibition Hall and Sakamoto Hachimangu; Kamado Shrine requires a further bus journey.
