Shofukuji (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Shofukuji?
What makes it 44% Kids-Friendly: School-age children may like spotting koi and temple cats, yet they must stay quiet, there is no playground or restroom, and history panels are Japanese only, so expect boredom after 30 minutes.
Positives:
- Free Admission: No entrance fee makes it easy to visit without extra planning.
- Easy Terrain: Flat paths and short distances suit young children and keep them engaged.
Challenges:
- Limited Facilities: No restrooms or playground on site—plan breaks at nearby Gion Station or Canal City.
- Uneven Surfaces: Gravel and stone paths can be slippery—sturdy shoes are recommended.
What is Shofukuji?
- A Zen Buddhist temple complex in Hakata, Fukuoka, founded in 1195 as Japan’s first Zen monastery
- An architectural ensemble featuring the Sanmon gate, main hall, meditation hall, and bell tower, each recognized as Important Cultural Properties
- A precinct of subsidiary sub-temples and a classical pond-and-garden layout at the heart of Fukuoka’s historic Teramachi district
What is so special about Shofukuji for with kids?
- Explore the historic Sanmon Gate and koi pond with minimal walking.
- Engage kids with a fun scavenger hunt for temple details.
- Spot friendly stray cats around lanterns and benches.
- Enjoy seasonal cherry blossoms or autumn maple views.
- Benefit from free admission and easy terrain for families.
Note: Shofukuji is 44% Kids-Friendly. You may want to consider other Kids-Friendly Things to Do in Fukuoka for a more suitable experience.
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours
Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: A 1-2 hour visit lets families enjoy the gate, pond stroll, and scavenger hunt without tiring young children.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Shofukuji
Sanmon Gate to Pond Stroll:
Walk the flat path from the main gate to the koi-filled pond.
Tip: Let kids spot koi and run safely along the wide gravel path.
Temple Scavenger Hunt:
Search for the three golden Buddhas, dragon ceiling carving, and Minamoto leaf emblems.
Tip: Give children a simple checklist and reward them with a sticker after finding each item.
Cat Spotting:
Quietly look for the resident stray cats napping on lanterns and benches.
Tip: Bring a soft toy to wave but do not feed the cats to keep them healthy.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Shofukuji
- Arrive Early: Get there before 10:00 AM to enjoy cooler temperatures and fewer visitors.
- Pack Essentials: Bring water, snacks, and a small first-aid kit since there are no food stalls onsite.
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.
When is the best time to visit Shofukuji (Fukuoka, Japan)?
In spring, watch cherry blossom petals drift onto the pond. In autumn, kids can collect fallen maple leaves on stone walkways. Visit early summer mornings for cooler, less crowded conditions.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip subway fare for 2 adults and 2 children | JPY 1,200 |
| Snacks and bottled drinks | JPY 1,200 |
| Total Estimated | JPY 2,400 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Shofukuji
Address: 6-1 Gokushomachi, Hakata Ward, Fukuoka, 812-0037, Japan
Map will load when you scroll here
Scroll down to view the interactive map
Looking for other Things to Do besides Shofukuji (Fukuoka)?
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 92-291-077510 BEST nearby Activities
Explore Popular Things to Do
How You Can Support Us
If our website helps you, please support us by booking your travel needs through this link: Book Flights, Hotels, Activities on Trip.com - New App User Promo up to 10% OFF. We may earn a small affiliate commission - at no extra cost to you!
It's a simple way to help us keep the site running and improving for everyone. Thanks for your support!
10 BEST nearby Activities