Japan 97 – Celebrity Cruise Day 10: Exploring Fukuoka’s Nanzoin Temple (Part 1)

☕ A Serene Climb and a Sweet Surprise

When we first arrived, we noticed signs that said “No Video Allowed.” My heart sank a little — I love capturing my travel moments for memories and for my amazing viewers like you! So, we decided to respect the rules and put the camera away, not wanting to risk getting kicked out.

Later on, we learned from a kind staff member that filming is actually allowed — just not in certain areas, like near the waterfalls. Apparently, people have accidentally dropped their cameras into the water while trying to get the perfect shot! So, those signs are more of a safety precaution than a total ban. Once I found that out, I was so relieved — because you know I love documenting every magical moment!

As we made our way up the mountain, we stumbled upon the most charming little gift shop, run by a sweet elderly lady who offered samples of her homemade mushroom tea. It was earthy, delicious, and surprisingly refreshing — we couldn’t resist buying a few packs to take home.

That’s the beauty of exploring Japan — you never know when you’ll come across a little moment of kindness or a hidden gem that makes your day that much more special.

🕯️ Peace, Nature, and Ancient Traditions

Every corner of Nanzoin Temple feels intentionally designed to connect you with nature. You’ll find stone sculptures tucked between mossy trees, incense burning in quiet corners, and small shrines that invite you to pause and reflect. The sound of waterfalls fills the air, creating a soundtrack of pure peace as you climb higher into the forest.

There are so many ways to worship and reflect here — from lighting incense to leaving offerings — and even if you’re not religious, it’s hard not to feel a sense of calm wash over you.

🌄 The Path to the Great Buddha

Eventually, you’ll reach a tunnel — a symbolic gateway leading to the massive reclining bronze Buddha that makes this temple so famous. From here, the mountain views are breathtaking. We were lucky enough to catch a bit of sunlight streaming through the trees, and it felt like nature’s way of saying, “Welcome.”

The path hugs the edge of the mountain, but don’t worry — it’s perfectly safe. Just take your time and enjoy every moment of the climb. We are almost to the top, but you’ll have to come back tomorrow for Part 2! But even this first half of the journey was unforgettable.

Nanzoin Temple is the kind of place that stays with you — part adventure, part meditation, and part wonder.

✨ Fun Facts About Nanzoin Temple

The reclining Buddha statue at Nanzoin is over 135 feet long and weighs about 300 tons — making it one of the largest bronze statues in the world.

It was completed in 1995 and represents Buddha’s passing into Nirvana.

The temple attracts over a million visitors every year, but still feels peaceful and uncrowded.

💡 Takeaway:

Sometimes the best discoveries happen when you slow down, follow the path, and stay open to surprises — even the signs that say “no video!”

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