Shofukuji (couple trip)
How Couple-Friendly is Shofukuji?
Pairs can enjoy a peaceful stroll by the pond, share meditation or tea ceremonies, and take romantic photos of centuries-old architecture, but the visit is short and dining or restrooms are off-site.
Positives:
- Quiet ambiance: The temple grounds remain calm even when nearby areas are busy.
- Photogenic scenes: Sanmon Gate and pond offer romantic backdrops for couples.
Challenges:
- Limited facilities: No restrooms or cafes inside the temple grounds.
- Uneven paths: Gravel and stone surfaces require careful walking.
What is so special about Shofukuji for couple trip?
- Walk side by side beneath the historic Sanmon Gate and pond reflections.
- Glimpse the three golden Buddhas through locked Butsuden Hall doors.
- Join a peaceful Zen meditation session with tea for two.
- Capture the cloud-dragon ceiling and gate details in your photos.
- Enhance your visit with an optional traditional tea ceremony.
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for couple trip: Allows time for a garden stroll, meditation session, and optional tea ceremony without rushing.
Couple-Friendly Activities in Shofukuji
Stroll under the Sanmon Gate:
Walk along the path and pond beneath the layered hip-and-gable gate.
Tip: Visit on a calm morning to capture mirror-like reflections in the pond.
Peek through the Butsuden Hall doors:
Glance at the three golden Buddhas of past, present, and future.
Tip: Stand quietly at the locked doors for the best view.
Photograph the cloud-dragon ceiling:
Admire the painted dragon on the main gate’s underside.
Tip: Use a wide-angle setting to include both gate and pond.
Join a Zazenkai meditation:
Attend the 6:30–8:00 AM Sunday Zen session with tea and a short lecture.
Tip: Arrive 10 minutes early to choose side-by-side seats.
Attend an ancient-style tea ceremony:
Experience a Yotsugashira Chakai tea ritual held occasionally on-site.
Tip: Reserve dates in advance through the temple office.
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Typical Budget for a Couple (2 Adults)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Zazen meditation session (200 yen per person) | JPY 400 |
| Tea ceremony (approx. 1500 yen per person) | JPY 3,000 |
| Total Estimated | JPY 3,400 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
When is the best time to visit Shofukuji?
From late March to early April, cherry blossoms bloom near the pond walkway. In November, red and gold leaves reflect on the pond under the gate.
How to Maximize Your Visit to Shofukuji
- Morning arrival: Get there before 9 AM to avoid crowds and catch perfect pond reflections.
- Easy access: Exit at Gion Station on the Kūkō Line and walk 5 minutes to the temple.
Map of Shofukuji
Address: 6-1 Gokushomachi, Hakata Ward, Fukuoka, 812-0037, Japan
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Reviews of Shofukuji
French Kid
It is more serene than the other temples in Fukuoka, especially more serene than Kushida Shrine, that place was absolutely crowded. Saw a citrus (I will not call it orange because I might be wrong.) tree and took some pictures. Near the river we saw train.
Marcos Ichinohe
Find your peace here! This temple is in the middle of a beautiful park and near Gion subway station. It’s well maintained and simply beautiful. It was impressively empty with a few locals there.
Tiina Golub (Tina Golubeva)
The oldest Zen temple in Japan and the peaceful gardens surrounding it are well worth a visit. We came early in the morning and it was very quiet, apart from the sound of kids playing in the nearby school.
Ben Hsu
Shofukuji Temple is probably the earliest or the oldest Zen Sect Temple in Japan, and it was built in 1195, although its current Sanmon Gate was built in 1911. It worships Triad Buddhas for the Buddha of the Past, of the Present [which is Shakyamuni Buddha], and of the Future as main deities, and for Japanese Zen Buddhism, Three Buddhas are Shaka, Amida, and Miroku. While the Temple seems to be ...
Ernest T
a large and tranquil temple complex and is believed to be the first Zen temple in Japan. a couple of magnificent wooden temples / buildings around, but all are not open to the public. after visiting the busy Tochoji Temple, we enjoyed the moment of quietness and calmness, and we wandered into the well-maintained garden with shady trees.
About Shofukuji
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+81 92-291-0775See available options
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