Sasaguri 88 Temple Pilgrimage - The Philosopher's Path (哲学の道, Tetsugaku no michi) is a pleasant stone path through the northern part of Kyoto's Higashiyama district. Kyoto. Japan.
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Sasaguri 88 Temple Pilgrimage

4.4
·268 reviews·Sasaguri, Japan

Discover Sasaguri 88, a unique pilgrimage route dotted with whimsical tanuki statues and serene wind chimes. A tranquil escape off the beaten path.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Sasaguri 88 Temple Pilgrimage - The Philosopher's Path (哲学の道, Tetsugaku no michi) is a pleasant stone path through the northern part of Kyoto's Higashiyama district. Kyoto. Japan.

Sasaguri 88 Temple Pilgrimage

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover Sasaguri 88, a unique pilgrimage route dotted with whimsical tanuki statues and serene wind chimes. A tranquil escape off the beaten path.

4.4
(268 reviews)

"This is a really good thing they got going on in this little corner of Fukuoka. I can't get enough of the Buddha."

Vertical photo
TIP

🐾 Embrace the Tanuki Fun

Don't miss the adorable tanuki statues; they're a signature feature and add a playful touch to your visit!

🎶 Listen to the Wind Chimes

Take a moment to relax under the glass wind chimes and enjoy their soothing sounds.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Whimsical Tanuki Statues

Whimsical Tanuki Statues

Encounter countless charming tanuki figurines, the playful guardians of this unique temple complex. A delightful sight for all ages!

Soothing Wind Chimes

Soothing Wind Chimes

Listen to the gentle melody of numerous glass wind chimes, creating a serene and magical atmosphere. A truly sensory experience.

Serene Pagoda and Bell Tower

Serene Pagoda and Bell Tower

Admire the architectural beauty of the temple's pagoda and bell tower, offering moments of peace and reflection amidst nature.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Tanuki Trail

Discover the whimsical world of Sasaguri 88, famous for its charming tanuki (raccoon dog) statues scattered throughout. This pilgrimage offers a unique blend of spiritual reflection and delightful discovery, perfect for those seeking off-the-beaten-path Japanese experiences. Reddit

Pilgrimage Preparedness

While the Sasaguri 88 Temple Pilgrimage can be done by car, walking between temples offers a more immersive experience. Consider comfortable footwear and a map, as English guides can be scarce. TikTokReddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour for photos
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

This is the tradition of collecting goshuin in Japan 🇯🇵 If you would like to collect goshuin on your trip, you can buy your goshuinchō at the first temple you visit. Bring your book with you everywhere you go, because often you'll come across temples and shrines by accident. Goshuin typically costs ¥300 to ¥500, and you can only pay using cash. This is a beautiful tradition that is meaningful for...
@pinatravels
15.7K likes • 157.3K views

🐾 Embrace the Tanuki Fun

Don't miss the adorable tanuki statues; they're a signature feature and add a playful touch to your visit! Reddit

🎶 Listen to the Wind Chimes

Take a moment to relax under the glass wind chimes and enjoy their soothing sounds. Reddit

a LITERAL gem 💎 This beautiful temple is off the beaten path with no crowds!! It’s about a 30-40 minute drive from Kyoto Station and well worth it imo! One of the ONLY temples I visited in Japan that wasn’t overcrowded with tourists, making it amazing for photos and videos too. Highly recommend the lil cafe at the bottom of the hill too. It was so beautiful and unique. Wish I got to translate the...
@itshelenmelon
15.1K likes • 161.1K views
OTAGI NENBUTSU-JI TEMPLE 🎋👺🎌 the coolest temple in Japan, fhat no one talks about #arashiyama #japantravel #arashiyama_kyoto #japantraveltips #japantravelguide #kyoto #kyototravel #otaginenbutsujitemple #kyototravelguide #kyotojapan #japanhiddengems #japanhiddengem #japanhidden
@dashakofman
8.8K likes • 125K views

🚶‍♀️ Walk the Pilgrimage Path

For a true experience, walk between temples. It's a rewarding way to connect with the journey. Reddit

💰 Cash for Goshuin

If collecting Goshuin (temple stamps), ensure you have cash, as most places only accept it. TikTok

How to correctly pray at Sensoji Temple and temples in general in Japan. I see many visitors and locals clapping. At temples, we do not clap. Save it for the shrine. #japanese #sensoji_asakusa_tokyo
@therealcyberbunny
7.8K likes • 80.1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🐾 Embrace the Tanuki Fun

Don't miss the adorable tanuki statues; they're a signature feature and add a playful touch to your visit! Reddit

🎶 Listen to the Wind Chimes

Take a moment to relax under the glass wind chimes and enjoy their soothing sounds. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Walk the Pilgrimage Path

For a true experience, walk between temples. It's a rewarding way to connect with the journey. Reddit

💰 Cash for Goshuin

If collecting Goshuin (temple stamps), ensure you have cash, as most places only accept it. TikTok

🗺️ English Map Scarcity

English maps can be hard to find; consider downloading offline maps or using a reliable navigation app. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.4
(268 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Sasaguri 88 for its unique charm, particularly the abundance of whimsical tanuki statues and the soothing sound of wind chimes. It's considered a peaceful, off-the-beaten-path destination offering a delightful spiritual experience. Some find English navigation challenging, and cash is essential for Goshuin collection.

"Very cute. There are many wind chimes hanging allover the temple. Lovely bear figurines displayed in many corners."

Quynh Chi Tran

"南蔵院 and this temple are quite near to each other if you drive.
Quite a good place to walk by!"

Meme Fufu

"This was my last stop for the day on the Sasaguri Shikoku. Looks like a marquee temple with lots going on. They're really into tanuki which I think is a 🦝 raccoon - they're all over the place. I walked here all the way from Sasaguri Station and saw about 12 temples today. This is a really good thing they got going on in this little corner of Fukuoka. I can't get enough of the Buddha ☸️ and coming to all these temples just puts me into the right zone. Hey, I can't find a map in English of the Sasaguri Shikoku. I really want to visit more temples and don't want to just depend on Google Maps. All in all, I did about 16 km today on foot 🦶. I'll cripple myself to do more of this."

無名

What People Like

Charming tanuki statues
Soothing wind chimes
Peaceful atmosphere

What People Dislike

Limited English maps
Cash-only Goshuin

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

While the pilgrimage is accessible by car, many visitors opt to walk between the 88 temples. If driving, it's located near Minami-Shōnan. For those relying on public transport, consider accessing nearby stations and walking or taking local buses. TikTokReddit

Yes, Sasaguri 88 Temple Pilgrimage is a great option for a day trip from Fukuoka. You can drive or take public transport to reach the area and explore a portion of the temples within a day. Reddit

It's possible, but challenging. While some temples are accessible via bus or train, walking between them is a significant part of the experience. Planning your route carefully is essential. Reddit

English maps can be scarce. Downloading offline maps on your phone or using a GPS device is highly recommended. Relying on Google Maps for temple locations is a common strategy. Reddit

The distance between temples varies greatly. Some are close enough to walk between easily, while others might require a longer trek or a short drive. The total pilgrimage covers a significant distance. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Generally, there is no entrance fee to visit the temples themselves. However, donations are always appreciated, and there may be fees for specific services like collecting Goshuin. Reddit

Most temples are open from early morning until late afternoon. It's advisable to check specific temple hours if you plan to visit very early or late, though the pilgrimage is often enjoyed throughout daylight hours. Reddit

Yes, many temples on the Sasaguri 88 pilgrimage offer Goshuin. You'll need to purchase a Goshuinchō (stamp book) at one of the first temples and pay a fee (typically ¥300-¥500) in cash for each stamp. TikTokReddit

No, advance booking is not typically required for visiting the temples on the Sasaguri 88 pilgrimage. It's an open pilgrimage site that you can explore at your own pace. Reddit

While specific event schedules can vary, the pilgrimage itself is an ongoing spiritual journey. Local festivals might occur at individual temples, but they are not usually advertised as part of the main pilgrimage draw. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The most immersive way is to walk between the temples, taking in the natural beauty and spiritual atmosphere. Enjoy the unique tanuki statues and the calming sound of wind chimes. TikTokReddit

Comfortable walking shoes are essential, as you'll likely be doing a lot of walking. Dress respectfully in layers, as weather can change. TikTokReddit

Restroom facilities are available at most temples. Water fountains might be less common, so it's wise to carry your own water bottle, especially during warmer months. Reddit

Yes, families can enjoy the whimsical tanuki statues and the generally peaceful environment. However, the walking distances between temples might be challenging for very young children. Reddit

The abundance of tanuki statues and the numerous glass wind chimes are the most distinctive features, creating a whimsical and serene atmosphere unlike other temple sites. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The areas with clusters of tanuki statues, the wind chime installations, and the temple pagodas offer excellent photo opportunities. The natural surroundings also provide beautiful backdrops. TikTokReddit

Photography is generally allowed in outdoor areas and for general temple exteriors. However, always be respectful and check for any signs prohibiting photography inside specific halls or sacred areas. TikTok

Late afternoon, during the golden hour, offers beautiful lighting for photography. Early mornings can also be serene and less crowded, providing a peaceful ambiance for shots. TikTok

Be mindful of other visitors and maintain a respectful demeanor. Avoid intrusive photography, especially during prayer times or in restricted areas. TikTok

Drone usage is typically restricted at religious sites in Japan to ensure peace and prevent disturbance. It's best to assume drones are not permitted unless explicitly stated otherwise. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Sasaguri 88 offers a unique and engaging experience for families. The abundant tanuki statues are a huge hit with children, turning the pilgrimage into a fun treasure hunt. The whimsical nature of the statues and the gentle sounds of the wind chimes create a magical atmosphere that can captivate young imaginations. Reddit

While the full pilgrimage might be extensive, families can choose to visit a selection of temples that are easily accessible. Focus on areas with a high concentration of tanuki for maximum kid appeal. Ensure everyone wears comfortable shoes, as even short walks between temples can add up. Bringing snacks and water is also a good idea, as facilities might be spread out. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers & Hikers

For solo travelers and avid hikers, the Sasaguri 88 Temple Pilgrimage offers a deeply rewarding and contemplative journey. The walking aspect is central to the experience, allowing for personal reflection and a connection with nature. You can set your own pace, stopping to admire the scenery or meditate at each temple. Reddit

Be prepared for varying distances between temples and potential challenges with navigation due to limited English signage. Carrying a reliable map or GPS device is crucial. The opportunity to collect Goshuin also adds a tangible element to the spiritual quest, providing a unique souvenir of your personal pilgrimage. TikTokReddit

📸 Photographers & Content Creators

Sasaguri 88 is a hidden gem for photographers and content creators seeking unique visuals. The whimsical tanuki statues and the ethereal beauty of the glass wind chimes offer endless creative possibilities. The natural landscapes surrounding the temples, especially during the golden hour, provide stunning backdrops. TikTokReddit

While the pilgrimage is less crowded than major tourist spots, respectful photography is key. Avoid disrupting other visitors or sacred rituals. Early mornings or late afternoons often provide the best light and fewer people, allowing for unobstructed shots. Remember to check for any specific photography restrictions within temple buildings. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Charm of Tanuki and Wind Chimes

Sasaguri 88 is renowned for its unique decorative elements that set it apart from more austere temple complexes. The most striking are the whimsical tanuki statues, which are scattered throughout the grounds in various poses and sizes. These raccoon dogs are figures of folklore, often associated with good fortune and prosperity, adding a playful and endearing quality to the spiritual journey. Reddit

Complementing the tanuki are the numerous glass wind chimes that hang from trees and temple eaves. Their gentle tinkling creates a soothing, almost meditative soundscape, especially when a breeze rustles through them. Visitors are encouraged to take a moment to sit beneath them and simply listen, allowing the tranquil sounds to enhance their experience. Reddit This combination of playful statues and serene sounds makes Sasaguri 88 a truly memorable destination, offering a delightful contrast to the more solemn aspects of a temple pilgrimage. TikTok

Navigating the Sasaguri 88 Pilgrimage

The Sasaguri 88 Temple Pilgrimage, located in Fukuoka, is a spiritual journey that can be undertaken in various ways. While it's possible to drive between temples, many visitors find the experience most rewarding when walking the pilgrimage route. This allows for a deeper connection with the surroundings and a more traditional approach to the journey. Reddit

However, navigating the route can present challenges, particularly for international visitors. English maps are not readily available, making it essential to have a reliable navigation system. Downloading offline maps on your smartphone or using a GPS device is highly recommended. Reddit The distances between temples can vary significantly, so planning your daily itinerary based on your physical stamina and available time is crucial. Some visitors complete sections of the pilgrimage in a day, while others dedicate multiple days to the entire circuit. Reddit

Collecting Goshuin: A Pilgrim's Souvenir

For many pilgrims, collecting Goshuin (temple stamps) is an integral part of the experience. These unique calligraphic stamps serve as a beautiful memento of each temple visited. At Sasaguri 88, like many other pilgrimage sites in Japan, you can purchase a Goshuinchō (a special book for collecting stamps) at one of the initial temples. TikTok

Each Goshuin typically costs between ¥300 and ¥500, and it's important to note that payment is usually cash-only. Temple staff or volunteers will meticulously hand-write the temple's name and date, often accompanied by a unique symbol. Having your Goshuinchō ready when you arrive at a temple can streamline the process and ensure you don't miss out on collecting these cherished souvenirs. TikTokReddit

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