Sōfuku-ji, Buddhist temple in Hakata district, Japan.
Sōfuku-ji is a Buddhist temple in Hakata featuring meditation halls, gardens, and traditional structures arranged according to Zen principles. The architecture creates a balanced design where nature and built spaces work together in harmony.
The temple was founded in 1240 and moved to its present location in 1600, when it became a family shrine for the Kuroda clan. This relocation marked its shift to become an important place in local society.
The temple serves as an active center for Zen Buddhist practice, where visitors can observe daily rituals and ceremonies. The spaces and rhythm of the site reflect the ongoing spiritual work that has continued here for generations.
The grounds are open daily and located about 7 minutes on foot from Chiyokeikokuchi Station on the Fukuoka City Subway. Flat pathways make it easy to walk through the different areas of the temple.
The main gate came from the former Fukuoka Castle and is now a prefectural cultural property. This shows the deep connection between the temple and local rulers across centuries.
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