Sofukuji Temple

Sofukuji Temple (崇福寺) is a Buddhist temple located in Nagasaki City, Nagasaki Prefecture, Japan. It is considered to be one of the most important Obaku Zen temples in the region and is designated as a national historic site.

The temple was founded in 1629 by Chinese Zen master Chaonian Yishan (超然性讚) and was built to serve the Chinese community in Nagasaki. The first head priest was Ingen Ryuki (隠元隆琦), who arrived in Japan in 1654. The temple complex features several buildings in the Chinese architectural style, including the Daiyuhoden (main hall), the Daiippohmon (gate with a bell tower), and the Kannondo (dedicated to Kannon, the bodhisattva of compassion).

One of the main attractions of Sofukuji Temple is the garden, which was designed by the Chinese Zen master Mokuan Shuyu (木庵性瑫). The garden features a pond, bridges, and various types of trees and plants, creating a serene and peaceful atmosphere.

Sofukuji Temple is also home to several cultural treasures, including a collection of Chinese paintings, calligraphy, and ceramics. These artifacts reflect the strong cultural ties between China and Japan during the Edo period.

Today, Sofukuji Temple is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, who come to admire the temple’s unique architecture, serene garden, and cultural treasures. It is also an important center for Obaku Zen Buddhism in Nagasaki Prefecture.

Getting there

By Tram

• Take tram line 1 or 4 to the final stop, “Sofukuji Temple”
• Walk 2 minutes from the tram stop to the temple

By Foot

• 25-30 minute walk from central Nagasaki

Details

Hours	8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Admission	Adults: 300 yen
Phone	+81 95-823-2645
Address	7-5 Kajiyamachi, Nagasaki, 850-0831
Resources	https://www.city.nagasaki.lg.jp/shimin/190001/192001/p000674.html