⛩️ Tochoji Temple (Fukuoka Prefecture)

Higashi-Naka-ji Temple, located in the Hakata district of Fukuoka City, is said to be the first Shingon sect temple established by the famous monk Kōbō Daishi (Kūkai) after he completed his training in Tang China and returned to Japan. Its official name is "Higashi-Naka-Mitsu-ji," named by Kōbō Daishi with the intention of "praying for the long-lasting transmission of esoteric Buddhism in the East." Notably, there is a wooden Great Buddha known as the "Fukuoka Great Buddha." It was created based on the belief that there are 108 human troubles, resulting in a seated statue that stands 10.8 meters tall, making it the largest wooden Buddha statue in Japan. Surprisingly, there are also up to 5,000 small Buddhas enshrined behind the statue. Additionally, the "Hell and Paradise Pilgrimage" located beneath the pedestal is an experience that should not be missed. Inside the main hall, you can find the principal image designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan, the "Wooden Standing Kannon with a Thousand Arms," as well as a statue of Kōbō Daishi, which is said to have been created by him. Other highlights include a five-story pagoda made of hinoki cypress, standing approximately 26 meters tall and lavishly constructed with high-quality materials such as granite and Mino tiles, as well as the hexagonal hall, which is designated as a cultural property of Fukuoka City. As the first temple of the "Eighty-Eight Sacred Places of Kyushu," it attracts numerous worshippers and is widely known as the site of the annual autumn festival "Hakata Old Town Lantern Walk." The main hall, five-story pagoda, and hexagonal hall, illuminated at night, create a dreamlike atmosphere that is truly worth seeing.

The first temple built by Kūkai in Japan. Inside the Great Buddha Hall, there is a "Hell and Paradise Pilgrimage." It is said that if one can touch the "Wheel of Buddha" on the dark path, they may be able to reach the Pure Land. The vibrant vermilion five-story pagoda was completed in 2011 and was constructed using traditional methods that do not involve nails.