Nanzoin

Nanzoin is a temple in Sasaguri Town, Kasuya District, Fukuoka Prefecture. It is the head temple of the Sasaguri Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage and is also the first numbered site. The temple is famous for its world-class size reclining Buddha statue (Shaka Nehanzo), about 41 meters long, which draws many tourists each year. Nanzoin became especially well known because its chief priest reportedly won a 130 million yen lottery jackpot (with more than 30 high-value wins), and it gained a reputation for bringing luck in lotteries. Along the approach, many lottery-related good-luck items are sold, and people from across Japan visit seeking blessings. Other highlights include an 11-meter Fudo Myo-o statue and rows of 500 rakan statues behind it. Inside the Seven Lucky Gods tunnel, the seven deities are enshrined, and visitors can’t help but make earnest wishes. With many Nanzoin-unique experiences and “luck-testing” elements you won’t find elsewhere, it’s recommended to immerse yourself fully in the visit. There are also lottery-themed goods available as souvenirs—who knows, it might change your destiny…!? Access is about a 3-minute walk from Kido-Nanzoin-mae Station.