Japan Adventure Day 10: The Giant Buddha of Nanzoin Temple — Big Feet, Big Luck!

Siva McAteer • October 13, 2025

Welcome back, travel friends! ✨

Today’s adventure takes us deep into the heart of Fukuoka, Japan, where ancient legends, peaceful temples, and some seriously big feet await! If you’ve ever dreamed of standing beside one of the largest bronze Buddha statues in the world, this stop on our Celebrity Cruise is going to blow your mind.

🛕 Discovering Nanzoin Temple in Fukuoka
Here we are, right where we left off — climbing those final temple stairs and bam! there it is — the reclining bronze Buddha of Nanzoin Temple in all its breathtaking glory.

This statue stretches an incredible 134 feet long and weighs over 300 tons! That’s roughly the weight of 200 cars. It’s officially one of the largest bronze Buddha statues in the world, and let me tell you — photos just can’t do it justice.

🍀 The Legend of the Lucky Feet

Here’s a fun fact that makes this spot even more special: Legend says that touching the Buddha’s feet brings good fortune. So, of course, we had to give it a try! And wow — those feet are enormous! Each one measures over 11 meters long. Standing next to them made my husband look tiny! 😂


Big feet, big luck, right? (I’m manifesting it now!)

🏯 Exploring Every Corner of Nanzoin

The Nanzoin Temple grounds are massive. You could easily spend a few hours wandering through its pathways, discovering hidden shrines, peaceful gardens, and scenic lookouts.


We even found a mix of traditional and modern touches — from a classic Japanese squat toilet to a futuristic high-tech toilet with all the fancy buttons. Japan really knows how to blend the old and the new!

🌞 Sunshine, Blue Skies & Hidden Treasures

As we made our way back down the mountain, Fukuoka treated us to the most stunning views — bright sunshine, blue skies, and the sound of a quiet creek below. And because Japan loves to surprise you, we stumbled upon more hidden treasures — a few tiny turtles basking near the water! 🐢


Nature here feels so alive and full of charm. Keep your eyes open because you never know what adorable little moments you’ll find.

🚉 A Perfect Ending — Eki Stamp Souvenir

Before wrapping up our temple day, we stopped by the train station to grab a new Eki stamp for my travel collection. If you’re new to these, Eki stamps are collectible ink stamps available at train stations all across Japan — and trust me, they’re addictive!


This one might just be my favorite — beautifully detailed and such a perfect reminder of the giant Buddha, the turtles, and the magic of Fukuoka. ❤️

🌏 Final Thoughts

From the giant reclining Buddha to the tiniest turtle by the creek, Nanzoin Temple perfectly captures the spirit of Japan — a peaceful blend of wonder, culture, and beauty.


If you ever visit Fukuoka, don’t skip this spot. Whether you’re on a Celebrity Cruise Japan itinerary or exploring on your own, it’s one of those rare places where you can truly feel the magic of Japan.


So, here’s to big feet, big luck, and even bigger adventures!


🎥 Want to see it all in action? Check out my YouTube video below, and don’t forget to subscribe for more amazing travel adventures from Japan!

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Japan Adventure Day 10: The Magical Xylophone Bridge in Fukuoka!

By Siva McAteer • October 13, 2025
If there’s one thing I’ve learned while exploring Japan, it’s that you can never predict what amazing surprise is waiting around the corner — and today’s adventure was music to my ears! After our awe-inspiring visit to the Nanzoin Temple (you know, the one with the giant reclining bronze Buddha and those famously lucky feet 🦶🍀), we thought the excitement for the day was over. But Fukuoka had one more little wonder to share — a xylophone bridge!

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By Siva McAteer • October 11, 2025
If you’re ever cruising through Japan on a Celebrity Cruise, make sure you don’t miss a stop in Fukuoka — home to one of Japan’s most jaw-dropping hidden gems: Nanzoin Temple. This place isn’t just any temple… it’s where you’ll find one of the largest bronze Buddha statues in the world! And let me tell you — this Buddha is HUGE! Nestled in the lush Fukuoka mountains, Nanzoin Temple feels like stepping into a peaceful, green paradise. But fair warning — bring your walking shoes, because it’s all uphill from here! (And yes, your legs will feel it… but in the best way.)

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By Siva McAteer • October 7, 2025
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By Siva McAteer • October 6, 2025
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By Siva McAteer • October 5, 2025
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By Siva McAteer • October 4, 2025
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By Siva McAteer • October 3, 2025
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