Shofukuji Temple
Japan's first Zen temple, founded in 1195 by Eisai who brought tea seeds back from China — making this the birthplace of Japanese tea culture. A hidden gem in the heart of Hakata.
30–45 min
Free (outer grounds)
Grounds: 9:00–17:00; meditation: check temple schedule
March–May (azaleas) or October–November
About 15 min walk from Hakata Station; or 5 min walk from Gion subway station
Location
Why Visit
- 1
The temple grounds are free and rarely crowded despite their historic importance
- 2
A plaque marks where Eisai planted Japan's first tea seeds
- 3
Combine with a walk through the nearby Sumiyoshi area and its old merchant townhouses
Local Tips
Japan's oldest Zen Buddhist temple (1195) — the outer grounds are always accessible and the atmosphere is genuinely contemplative. Zazen (seated meditation) sessions are open to the public on some mornings — check the temple schedule. Located in the historic Hakata district; combine with Kushida Shrine and Hakata Machiya Folk Museum for a morning walking circuit.
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