Shofukuji (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Shofukuji?
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 Entry: Temple grounds have no admission fee for families.
- Easy Paths: Flat gravel and stone paths suit children aged 3 and up.
Challenges:
- No Playground: There is no dedicated play area; kids may get restless.
- Limited Facilities: No restrooms or changing tables inside; plan breaks nearby.
What is so special about Shofukuji for with kids?
- Free entry and gentle paths for easy family exploration.
- Pond area where kids can count koi fish and spot stray cats.
- Interactive scavenger hunt of historic carvings and emblems.
- Seasonal blooms and foliage add color for family photos.
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: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: A relaxed pace lets kids explore the pond and carvings without rushing.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Shofukuji
Walk from Sanmon Gate to Pond:
Follow the main path from the entrance gate to the garden pond.
Tip: Let kids count koi fish and run on the flat stones safely.
Scavenger Hunt:
Find the three golden Buddhas, dragon ceiling carving, and leaf emblems on the gate.
Tip: Give children a simple checklist to keep them engaged.
Cat Spotting:
Observe temple cats napping on lanterns and stone benches.
Tip: Encourage quiet steps to watch them without scaring them away.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Entry fee | JPY 0 |
| Bottled water and snacks | JPY 600 |
| Amulets (¥500 each × 2) | JPY 1,000 |
| Total Estimated | JPY 1,600 |
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?
In autumn, look for red maple leaves around the pond; in spring, spot early cherry blossoms near the gate.
How to Maximize Your Visit to Shofukuji
- Visit Early: Arrive before 10:00 AM to enjoy quieter grounds and cooler temperatures.
- Pack Essentials: Bring water, light snacks, and a small first-aid kit for kids.
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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