Rurisan Shoho-ji Temple, located in Sasaguri Town, Kasuya District, Fukuoka Prefecture, is a temple of the Omuro school of Shingon Buddhism that is said to bring benefits for the cure of eye diseases. The precincts, where flowers of each season bloom, are also known as a “temple of flowers” and soothe the hearts of visitors.
History of Rurisan Shoho-ji Temple
The founding of Rurisan Shoho-ji Temple dates back to the end of the Nara period. It is said that it began when Kobo Daishi Kukai, who returned from China, practiced asceticism at this place and carved and enshrined an Eleven-Faced Kannon statue. Later, it was revived during the Kamakura period, and during the Edo period, it received patronage from the lord of the Fukuoka Domain, the Kuroda family, and it has attracted the faith of many people to this day.
Highlights of Rurisan Shoho-ji Temple
- Eleven-Faced Kannon for the Cure of Eye Diseases: The main enshrined deity, the Eleven-Faced Kannon, is said to bring benefits for the cure of eye diseases, and many worshipers visit.
- Flowers of Each Season: Within the precincts, flowers of each season bloom, such as plum blossoms, cherry blossoms, azaleas, hydrangeas, and autumn leaves. In particular, it is known as a famous spot for cherry blossoms, with approximately 200 cherry trees blooming in spring.
- Three-Storied Pagoda: The three-storied pagoda built during the Edo period is a symbolic presence in Sasaguri Town.
- Bell Tower: The bonsho (temple bell) is designated as a Tangible Cultural Property of Sasaguri Town.
- Sasaguri Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage: Shoho-ji Temple is the 5th temple of the Sasaguri Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage.
Basic Information about Rurisan Shoho-ji Temple
| Item | Content |
| Address | 475-2 Sasaguri, Sasaguri Town, Kasuya District, Fukuoka Prefecture 811-2404 |
| Phone Number | 092-947-0318 |
| Viewing Hours | 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM |
| Admission Fee | Free |
| Parking | Available |
| Access | Car: About 20 minutes from the Kyushu Expressway “Fukuoka IC” Train: About a 15-minute walk from JR Sasaguri Line “Sasaguri Station” Bus: About 5 minutes from JR Sasaguri Line “Sasaguri Station” by Nishitetsu Bus bound for “Sanno,” get off at the “Shohoji-mae” bus stop and it’s right there |
Rurisan Shoho-ji Temple is a healing temple known for its benefits for the cure of eye diseases and beautiful flowers. Please visit and spend a peaceful time.