Komyozenji Temple

Komyozenji Temple (光明禅寺) is a Buddhist temple located in the city of Dazaifu, Fukuoka Prefecture, Japan. The temple was founded in the early Kamakura period (1185-1333) by the monk Shoichi Kokushi (Enni), who was a disciple of the Chinese Zen master Wuzhun Shifan.

The temple is known for its unique Zen garden, which features a large pond with several small islands, connected by bridges and walking paths. The garden is designed to represent a miniature landscape, with rocks and plants carefully arranged to create a sense of harmony and balance. The exact date and designer of the garden are unknown.

Komyozenji Temple is also home to several important cultural treasures, including a set of Kamakura period wooden statues of Shakyamuni Buddha and his disciples, Kasyapa and Ananda, which are designated as Important Cultural Properties of Japan. The temple is open to visitors, and many tourists come to see the Zen garden and the historical artifacts housed within the temple’s walls.

In addition to its cultural and historical significance, Komyozenji Temple is an active center for Buddhist practice and study. The temple hosts regular zazen (meditation) sessions, as well as classes and workshops on Buddhism and Zen practice.

Getting there

From Dazaifu Station to Komyozenji Temple:

Walk	About 6 minutes (400 m)

Details

Currently closed for renovation.

Hours	8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Admission	200 yen
Phone	+81 92-922-4053
Address	2 Chome-16-1 Saifu, Dazaifu, Fukuoka 818-0117
Resources	https://gofukuoka.jp/spots/detail/26987