Sasaguri 88 Temple Pilgrimage
Discover Sasaguri 88, a unique pilgrimage route dotted with whimsical tanuki statues and serene wind chimes. A tranquil escape off the beaten path.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Sasaguri 88 Temple Pilgrimage
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
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.
"This is a really good thing they got going on in this little corner of Fukuoka. I can't get enough of the Buddha."
🐾 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.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
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
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
Admire the architectural beauty of the temple's pagoda and bell tower, offering moments of peace and reflection amidst nature.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Tanuki Trail
Pilgrimage Preparedness
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🐾 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.
🚶♀️ Walk the Pilgrimage Path
For a true experience, walk between temples. It's a rewarding way to connect with the journey.
💰 Cash for Goshuin
If collecting Goshuin (temple stamps), ensure you have cash, as most places only accept it.
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!
🎶 Listen to the Wind Chimes
Take a moment to relax under the glass wind chimes and enjoy their soothing sounds.
🚶♀️ Walk the Pilgrimage Path
For a true experience, walk between temples. It's a rewarding way to connect with the journey.
💰 Cash for Goshuin
If collecting Goshuin (temple stamps), ensure you have cash, as most places only accept it.
🗺️ English Map Scarcity
English maps can be hard to find; consider downloading offline maps or using a reliable navigation app.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🎫 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🧭 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.
Comfortable walking shoes are essential, as you'll likely be doing a lot of walking. Dress respectfully in layers, as weather can change.
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.
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.
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.
📸 📸 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.
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.
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.
Be mindful of other visitors and maintain a respectful demeanor. Avoid intrusive photography, especially during prayer times or in restricted areas.
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.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Hikers
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.
📸 Photographers & Content Creators
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.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Charm of Tanuki and Wind Chimes
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. 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.
Navigating the Sasaguri 88 Pilgrimage
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. 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.
Collecting Goshuin: A Pilgrim's Souvenir
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.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit