Although this statue is practically brand new (completed in 1995) compared to other statues found in cities like Nara or Kamakura, it doesn't take away how unbelievably immense it is. This bronze Nehanzo (or reclining Buddha) is approximately 41 meters long, 11 meters high, and weighs around 300 tons.
Although this statue is practically brand new (completed in 1995) compared to other statues found in cities like Nara or Kamakura, it doesn't take away how unbelievably immense it is. This bronze Nehanzo (or reclining Buddha) is approximately 41 meters long, 11 meters high, and weighs around 300 tons. (Photo: Bradford Pomeroy)

Nanzō-in Temple

The Sasaguri 88 Temple Pilgrimage

Bradford Pomeroy   - 1 min read

Nanzō-in is a temple located in Sasaguri, a small town in the Kasuya District of Fukuoka Prefecture. It's unique not only because it houses the largest Nehanzo (reclining Buddha) in Japan, but it's a central part of Kyushu's tribute to the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage. In Shikoku, the pilgrimage takes about 3 months on foot, whereas in Sasaguri, it takes only 3 days (or 1 by car). There are shops where you can purchase a stamp book and receive a special kanji (Japanese character) and seal for each temple you visit. Nanzō-in was originally on Mt. Koya (headquarters of Shingon Buddhism), but moved to Sasaguri in 1899.

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Find out more about Nanzoin Temple.

Bradford Pomeroy

Bradford Pomeroy @bradford.pomeroy

NW Kyushu