YokaBus Nanzoin Bronze Buddha and Itoshima Totoro Forest & Sakurai Futamigaura

【Nanzoin Temple】
Nanzoin Temple, located in Sasaguri, is a Shingon Buddhist temple renowned for its colossal reclining Buddha statue. Completed in 1995, the statue is 41 meters long, 11 meters high, and weighs approximately 300 tons. Nanzoin Temple offers a unique blend of spiritual significance, artistic beauty, and cultural heritage in a serene mountain setting near Fukuoka City.
!!Important: Nanzoin Temple Dress Code & Rules!!
Nanzoin is a sacred Buddhist pilgrimage site. The temple strictly enforces the following rules at the gate. Visitors who do not comply will be denied entry.
★Dress Code (All Genders)
Shoulders and knees must be fully covered.
Banned: Tank tops, sleeveless shirts, crop tops, shorts, mini-skirts, and ripped jeans exposing skin above the knee.
★Tattoos
All visible tattoos must be completely covered with clothing or bandages before entering. The temple will ask visitors with visible ink to leave.
★Temple Etiquette
No Selfie Sticks or Tripods: These are completely banned on site.
No Food or Drink: Eating or drinking while walking the grounds is prohibited.
Footwear: Wear comfortable walking shoes. You will need to remove your shoes if entering the Reclining Buddha's interior.
【Yamaya Factory Terrace】
Step inside a modern culinary playground dedicated entirely to Fukuoka’s signature specialty: Mentaiko (spicy cod roe). You will head up to the open-viewing factory floor for a self-guided walkthrough. Witness the precise craftsmanship and cutting-edge automation behind the cleaning, sorting, and marinating of the roe in Yamaya's secret 168-hour sake-and-chili sauce. After the tour, browse the bustling marketplace for unique souvenirs, including mentaiko-flavored snacks, seasonings, and freshly made items you can't buy anywhere else.
【Miyajidake Shrine】
Miyajidake Shrine is a significant Shinto shrine located in Fukutsu City, Fukuoka Prefecture. The shrine has been revered for centuries as a place where great wishes come true, believed to bring good fortune to overcome all odds and attracts over 2 million visitors annually. Twice a year, around February 20th and October 20th, the setting sun aligns perfectly with the shrine's approach, creating a golden pathway to the sea. From the stone staircase (otokozaka), visitors can enjoy a spectacular view of the straight approach extending to the sea.
【Kagami no Umi】
At low tide, especially during spring tides, the sandy beach transforms into a mirror-like surface, reflecting the sky above. This creates a mesmerizing visual effect where the sky and land seem to merge, producing breathtaking photo opportunities. Even amateur photographers can capture stunning images with smartphones. The reflections create unique opportunities for creative shots, especially during sunset when the sky takes on vibrant colors.
【Totoro Forest】
Totoro's Forest, officially known as part of the Genkai Quasi-National Park, is a charming natural attraction that has gained popularity due to its resemblance to the magical setting in the famous Japanese anime.
【Sakurai Futamigaura】
Sakurai Futamigaura is a scenic coastal location in Fukuoka Prefecture, known for its iconic "married rocks" (Meoto Iwa) and stunning sunset views. Symbolizes marriage and eternal love in Japanese mythology, and the sunset provides the most breathtaking views!