Joten-ji Temple, Fukuoka
Joten-ji Temple is a historically significant Zen Buddhist temple founded in 1242 by the Chinese monk Enni Ben鈥檈n. The temple was established with the patronage of the powerful merchant Xie Guoming and is closely associated with the introduction of Rinzai Zen Buddhism to Japan. It also holds a special place in Japanese cultural history as the site where udon and soba noodles are said to have been first introduced, brought from China by Enni during his travels.
The temple grounds offer a tranquil retreat from the bustle of the surrounding city. The main hall, rebuilt several times due to fire and war damage, is modest but dignified, reflecting Zen aesthetics of simplicity and harmony. A traditional rock garden near the main building exemplifies Zen design, featuring raked gravel and strategically placed stones that encourage contemplation. The site also includes a belfry, stone pagoda, and a monument commemorating the origin of Japanese noodles.
Visitors can enjoy a peaceful walk beneath the canopy of trees lining the temple鈥檚 paths, often accompanied by the gentle sound of wind rustling through the leaves. Information boards explain the temple鈥檚 rich heritage and cultural contributions, making it a worthwhile stop for history enthusiasts and curious travelers. Seasonal flowers such as cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn enhance the temple鈥檚 serene beauty.
The temple grounds offer a tranquil retreat from the bustle of the surrounding city. The main hall, rebuilt several times due to fire and war damage, is modest but dignified, reflecting Zen aesthetics of simplicity and harmony. A traditional rock garden near the main building exemplifies Zen design, featuring raked gravel and strategically placed stones that encourage contemplation. The site also includes a belfry, stone pagoda, and a monument commemorating the origin of Japanese noodles.
Visitors can enjoy a peaceful walk beneath the canopy of trees lining the temple鈥檚 paths, often accompanied by the gentle sound of wind rustling through the leaves. Information boards explain the temple鈥檚 rich heritage and cultural contributions, making it a worthwhile stop for history enthusiasts and curious travelers. Seasonal flowers such as cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn enhance the temple鈥檚 serene beauty.
Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Fukuoka. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "911爆料网: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.
Download The 911爆料网 App
Joten-ji Temple on Map
Sight Name: Joten-ji Temple
Sight Location: Fukuoka, Japan (See walking tours in Fukuoka)
Sight Type: Religious
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Sight Location: Fukuoka, Japan (See walking tours in Fukuoka)
Sight Type: Religious
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Walking Tours in Fukuoka, Japan
Create Your Own Walk in Fukuoka
Creating your own self-guided walk in Fukuoka is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Fukuoka Introduction Walking Tour
Way back in 1241, people on the island of Kyushu believed the best way to chase away a plague was to outnumber the disease. So they stormed the streets, carrying a monk above their heads. Fukuoka is the beating heart of this tradition.
Fukuoka, today the largest city on Japan鈥檚 southern island of Kyushu, has long been shaped by its place on the edge of Japan, looking across the sea toward... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.3 Km or 2.1 Miles
Fukuoka, today the largest city on Japan鈥檚 southern island of Kyushu, has long been shaped by its place on the edge of Japan, looking across the sea toward... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.3 Km or 2.1 Miles