Fukuoka Temples and Culture Walk Sacred Sites in Hakata

Shōfuku-ji, founded in 1195 by Eisai in Hakata, Fukuoka, is often regarded as Japan’s first full-fledged Zen temple. Its grounds hold the inscription “Fusō Saisho Zenkutsu” and are designated a national historic site.

Tōchō-ji in Hakata is a historic Shingon Buddhist temple associated with Kōbō Daishi (Kūkai). It features a large wooden Daibutsu (Great Buddha) approximately 10.8 m tall and offers visitors a “hell-and-paradise” walkthrough beneath the Buddha statue.

Kushida Shrine, known affectionately as “O-Kushida-san,” is the guardian shrine of Hakata. Founded in 757, it hosts the legendary Hakata Gion Yamakasa festival each July and displays ornamental float towers (Kazari Yamakasa) year-round.

Canal City Hakata is a sprawling entertainment and shopping complex in Fukuoka’s Hakata district. Set across approximately 43,500 m², it features an indoor canal, dynamic fountain and projection shows, around 150 shops, restaurants, hotels and a “Ramen Stadium.”

Sumiyoshi Shrine in Hakata is regarded as one of Japan’s oldest Sumiyoshi shrines and the ichinomiya of Chikuzen Province. It enshrines the three sea-god Sumiyoshi deities and has long served as a guardian of voyages and maritime safety.