Sōfuku-ji Temple, located in Chiyo, Hakata Ward, Fukuoka City, is a Zen temple associated with Kuroda Kanbei. Within the precincts, there is a cemetery for successive generations of the Kuroda family, and it is a place where you can feel the history of the Fukuoka Domain.
History of Sōfuku-ji Temple
It is a Zen temple built by Nagamasa Kuroda, the lord of the Fukuoka Domain, together with Shofuku-ji Temple. As the family temple of the Kuroda family, successive lords of the domain and their families are buried there.
Within the precincts, 12 tombstones remain, including those of Kuroda Kanbei and Kuroda Nagamasa.
It is an important historic site that is indispensable for discussing the history of the Fukuoka Domain.
Characteristics of the Kuroda Family Cemetery
- Located within the precincts of Sōfuku-ji Temple and designated as a National Historic Site.
- Tombstones of the lords of the Fukuoka Domain and their families, such as Kuroda Kanbei and Kuroda Nagamasa, are lined up.
- Each tombstone is in the form of a gorintō (five-ringed pagoda) and is surrounded by sotoba (wooden stupas).
- In a solemn atmosphere, you can reflect on the achievements of successive generations of the Kuroda family.
Highlights of the Kuroda Family Cemetery
- The tombstones of Kuroda Kanbei and Kuroda Nagamasa are particularly large and magnificent.
- Many sotoba stand around the tombstones, making you feel the weight of history.
- In a quiet space, you can reflect on the history of the Kuroda family.
Basic Information
| Item | Content |
| Name | Sōfuku-ji Temple (Kuroda Family Cemetery) |
| Address | 4-7-29 Chiyo, Hakata Ward, Fukuoka City |
| Access | About a 5-minute walk from Fukuoka City Subway “Chiyo Kenchoguchi Station” |
| Viewing | Guided tours by Fukuoka City tourist guide volunteers (paid) Reservation required 7 days in advance |
Conclusion
Sōfuku-ji Temple (Kuroda Family Cemetery) is a historically important place as the family temple of the lords of the Fukuoka Domain, the Kuroda family. The solemn space where the tombstones of successive lords, such as Kuroda Kanbei and Kuroda Nagamasa, are lined up, deeply impresses visitors.