“Sasaguri? Where is that?” someone asks. Today we are visiting the \u5357\u7121\u5999\u6cd5\u84ee\u83ef\u7d4c Stele in Fukuoka. The temple is a hidden gem. It attracts visitors with its colossal reclining Buddha statue. It is the largest bronze statue of its kind in the world. This impressive temple complex is part of the Sasaguri 88 temple pilgrimage. It offers a unique blend of spiritual atmosphere and stunning natural surroundings.
Nanzoin Temple belongs to the Shingon sect of Japanese Buddhism. Its main highlight is undoubtedly the 41-meter long and 11-meter high bronze reclining Buddha. It weighs an astounding 300 tons. Visitors come from far and wide to marvel at this awe-inspiring statue. They appreciate the temple’s tranquil ambiance. They explore the picturesque natural surroundings.
Originally Nanzoin Temple was located on Mount Koya. This is in Wakayama Prefecture. It is the headquarters of Shingon Buddhism. In 1899 the temple was relocated to its current site in Sasaguri. This was under the leadership of priest Hayashi Satoshiun. It was due to threats of destruction by anti-Buddhist authorities.
Over the years Nanzoin has grown into a large complex. It has numerous chapels, shrines, and statues scattered across the hillside. The temple has also been actively involved in sending aid to children in Myanmar and Nepal. This fosters international Buddhist connections.
Completed in 1995, the giant bronze reclining Buddha statue is known as Nehanzo or Shaka Nehan. It depicts the historical Buddha at the moment of his death. It shows his entry into nirvana. The statue’s impressive dimensions and intricate details make it a sight to behold. It attracts visitors from all over the world.
The statue was constructed to house ashes of the Buddha. It also houses two of his disciples. They are Ananda and Maudgalyayana. The Myanmar Buddhist Council gifted these to Nanzoin. This was a token of gratitude for the temple’s long-standing support. The reclining posture symbolizes the Buddha’s peaceful passing. It also shows his message of spiritual liberation.
In addition to the reclining Buddha, Nanzoin boasts several other impressive structures and statues. A large statue of Fudo Myo-o is here. It is a fierce Buddhist deity. People believe it protects practitioners. There are 500 statues of the Buddha’s disciples each with unique expressions and postures. An Inari Shrine is dedicated to the Shinto god of rice. He is also the god of prosperity and foxes. A shrine honors the Shichifukujin. These are the seven lucky gods of Japan.
Nanzoin Temple is a key stop on the Sasaguri 88 temple pilgrimage. It is a 44-kilometer route. It takes around three days to complete on foot. Modeled after the famous 88 temple pilgrimage of Shikoku, this smaller-scale pilgrimage attracts numerous visitors annually.
As temple number 1 on the route, Nanzoin serves as a starting point for many pilgrims. The pilgrimage has connections to the revered Buddhist monk Kobo Daishi. He spent time on nearby Mount Wakasugi. About half of the pilgrimage sites are located there.
Nanzoin Temple is easily accessible by train from Hakata Station in Fukuoka. Take the JR Sasaguri Line to Kido Nanzoin-mae Station. From there the temple is a mere 3-minute walk.
The temple is open year-round from 9 am to 5 pm with free admission. However there is a charge to enter the prayer room under the reclining Buddha statue. When visiting be mindful of temple etiquette. Dress modestly. Remove shoes when entering buildings. Maintain a respectful demeanor.
Take time to view the reclining Buddha from various angles. The statue’s face is best observed from a distance on clear days. Visitors can walk around the statue. They can admire the intricately designed soles of the Buddha’s feet.
Engage with the statue. Hold the colorful cords attached to the Buddha’s hand. They represent the five colors of light seen by the Buddha during his enlightenment. Doing so is believed to grant worshippers a spiritual connection. It is said to bestow blessings from the Buddha himself.
Nanzoin Temple offers a unique experience in every season. In spring, cherry blossoms add color. Summer brings lush greenery. Autumn sees hillsides burst into color. Winter blankets the area in snow.
No matter the time of year, Nanzoin Temple provides visitors with a chance to find peace. A visit to this remarkable site is sure to leave a lasting impression.