Myorakuji Temple

Deep within Hakata Ward, nestled amidst the bustling energy of Fukuoka, lies the serene Myorakuji Temple. Myorakuji Temple isn’t just a place of worship. It holds a surprising connection to a beloved Japanese sweet treat: uiro. Myorakuji Temple was established in 1316, its original name, Sekijozan, meaning “stone castle mountain.” This name arose from its unique location on a stone base by Hakata Bay. From the sea, the temple resembled a majestic stone fortress. This strategic position made Myorakuji Temple a crucial diplomatic center. It housed envoys from Ming Dynasty China during a period of flourishing trade, a time known as the Myorakuji trade. The temple’s history intertwines with the story of uiro. In 1368, a Chinese official named Chen Yanyou sought refuge at Myorakuji Temple. Chen, skilled in medicine, introduced a Chinese medicinal herb, also called “uiro.” Chen’s son, Soki, later served as a physician to the shogun in Kyoto. He presented the shogun with the uiro medicine. However, it was the accompanying sweet, served as a palate cleanser, that stole the show. This sweet eventually evolved into the uiro we know today. Myorakuji Temple, sadly, succumbed to fire in 1586. It was later rebuilt at its current site during the Edo era by the Fukuoka Domain. Within its tranquil grounds, you’ll find the tombs of Kuroda Clan retainers. You’ll also discover the tomb of Sokan Kamiya, a prominent Hakata merchant. While uiro may not be a dominant treat in Fukuoka now, a local group is working to revive its popularity as a souvenir, connecting the city back to the legacy of Myorakuji Temple. You can find Hakata Uiro at Hakatamachiya Furusatokan and other locations throughout the city. Visit Myorakuji Temple, and reflect on this unique history, a blend of diplomacy, medicine, and the unexpected sweetness of uiro.