This translation was prepared with AI assistance and reviewed by the editorial team.
Nanzoin is an active Buddhist temple in Sasaguri, famous for a 41-metre reclining Buddha. It is about 20 minutes from Hakata by rapid train and three minutes on foot from Kidonanzoin-mae Station, making it an easy half-day cultural trip.
This is a religious site, not a theme park or a photo studio. A visitor fee began in March 2026, and strict dress, tattoo and photography rules are enforced. Read them before boarding the train because cover-up cloth is no longer loaned at the entrance.
Essential rules before visiting
Visitor fee, hours and rules checked from Nanzoin’s official site on 23 July 2026.
| Visitor fee | ¥500 per person; under 19 and residents of Japan are free, with proof possibly requested |
|---|---|
| Reclining Buddha area | 09:00–17:00; final reception 16:30 and final entry 16:45 |
| Inside the Buddha | 09:30–16:00; an additional ¥500 prayer/memorial offering |
| Train | JR Fukuhoku-Yutaka Line to Kidonanzoin-mae; rapid train about 20 minutes from Hakata |
| Large luggage | No lockers at the station or temple; leave suitcases at Hakata Station or your hotel |
| Groups | Groups of 10+ require permission at least three days in advance |
Dress code: shoulders, stomach, thighs and tattoos
Visitors of any gender must cover shoulders and the stomach and wear bottoms that cover the thighs to the knees. Tank tops, camisoles, crop tops, short skirts, shorts and ripped clothing exposing skin are not accepted. Tights, stockings and leggings do not count as covering exposed skin.
Visible tattoos must be covered. The free cloth-loan service ended on 28 February 2026, so visitors without suitable clothing can be refused entry. The rule does not apply to children aged 12 and under; cultural or facial tattoos should be discussed with reception.
Photography and behaviour rules
- Selfie sticks, tripods, stabilisers and similar equipment are prohibited.
- Do not film while walking or photograph in areas without permission.
- A visit primarily for commercial or organised photography needs advance permission.
- No eating while walking, smoking, alcohol, loud music, dancing or blocking paths for long shoots.
- Follow signs and staff instructions; disrespectful conduct can result in removal.
The reclining Buddha and temple route
The bronze Shaka Nehan statue was completed in 1995 and measures 41 metres long, 11 metres high and about 300 tonnes. Relics of the Buddha are enshrined inside. Nanzoin’s official map describes it as one of the world’s largest bronze reclining Buddhas.
Begin at the main hall, then visit the Daishido, Fudo Myoo, halls for female deities, Daikokuten and the reclining Buddha according to signs. Nanzoin is the first temple of the Sasaguri Shikoku 88-site pilgrimage, so move quietly and allow time for prayer rather than treating the statue as the only stop.
Getting there and accessibility
From Hakata Station, take the JR Fukuhoku-Yutaka Line toward Sasaguri and Iizuka. The approach begins about three minutes from Kidonanzoin-mae Station, and the reclining Buddha is roughly ten minutes farther uphill. The grounds include slopes and stairs; wear stable shoes.
Three free car parks are listed, but all buses—including minibuses—are prohibited from stopping or using those car parks except approved pilgrimage groups. Public transport is the simplest option for individual visitors.
Official confirmation
Read the official English visitor rules, current admission notice and access page before leaving.
More cultural day trips
Combine temple etiquette with other destinations reachable from Fukuoka.
