Fukuoka's tranquil temple within walking distance

A travelogue of Shofukuji in Fukuoka 🌿⛩️

From Hakata Station, I slowly made my way to Shofukuji, where the city's hustle and bustle gradually faded into serene tranquility. Known as Japan's first Zen temple, this place may appear modest and simple on the surface, but it carries the weight of nearly a thousand years of history.

As you stroll through the streets of Hakata, there comes a moment when you suddenly feel a quiet breath amidst the busy city. That moment leads you to **Shofukuji (聖福寺)**, Japan's first Zen temple.

The moment I stepped through the main gate, gentle sunlight softly bathed the temple grounds. The shimmering light on the old tiled roof, the neatly arranged stone paths, and the shadows of trees combined to create a scene that felt like stepping into a painting.

The temple grounds were astonishingly quiet. The bamboo leaves glistened in the sunlight, rustling softly in the breeze, while the refreshing wind seemed to wash away the fatigue of travel.

The garden, in particular, showcased vibrant colors under the sunlight. The unique, orderly atmosphere of the Zen temple contrasted beautifully with the lush greenery, instantly bringing a sense of peace to the mind.

Despite being just minutes away from the city center, standing here felt as though time had come to a halt. With few tourists around, it felt like discovering a secret garden all to myself.

As I left, I looked back at the temple roof standing tall under the blue sky and thought, "This is a place I would definitely want to revisit when I come to Fukuoka."

👉 Shofukuji is not just a 'temple'; it’s a space that gifts travelers with sunlight-filled tranquility and profound impressions. If you're looking for a place to pause and take a breath in the city, there’s probably no better spot than this.

Finding such a quiet place to stay in the midst of the city felt like a blessing, and it gave me the feeling of discovering a 'hidden retreat' that should not be missed during a trip to Fukuoka.

Post by 여행뒤엔출근 | Sep 18, 2025