Tochoji Temple

#fukuokatrip Tochoji Temple, in Hakata, Fukuoka, is probably the first Shingon Sect Buddhist temple or the first Buddhist temple in Fukuoka or in Japan, after Kobo Daishi Kukai or Master Monk Kukai returned from China, in Tang Dynasty, to Japan and landed in Hakata, in 806 AD, and built the Tōchōmiji Temple, which is often called Tochoji Temple- nowadays. The Temple was damaged by wars, fires, and other natural disasters, because it was built mainly in wood. Luckily, with the patronage of the 2nd Prince Tadayuki of the Kuroda family, which was the lord of the Fukuoka Territory, it became the Bodhi Temple of the Kuroda family, its main worship hall and other temple's facilities were funded by the Kuroda Lord. That is probably also the reason why there are burial section, with tomb stones of the Kuroda Family members in a rear corner section of the Temple. The Temple is famous for its giant wooden Avalokitesvara Buddha statue, which is taller than 10.8 meters and is seated in the Side Hall which does cost a symbolic admission fee for entrance. While the main worship hall has a few statues, it seems that main worship hall is primarily used for worship and other religious or ceremonial services, including praying, funeral, and other occasions. Inside the side hall, there is also a special pass way which is structured and composed of various paintings for showing life and events in the Hell and how believers can strive to work through the Hell tunnel to the Eternal world by doing good deeds, a reflection of Karma or something about rebirth. The Temple is in short walking distance from West Side of Hakata Station. Except the Side Hall for viewing Wooden Avalokitesvara Buddha statue, the Temple is free of charge for entrance.