There is a unique opportunity to experience Zen meditation at two Zen temples in Hakata. Located in the eastern part of Fukuoka city and facing the Genkai Sea, the Hakata area, a representative port town of Japan, played a crucial role in overseas trade from the 12th to 16th centuries. It is rich in historical landmarks such as guardian shrines and legendary temples. Nowadays, it has become a popular tourist spot, known as “Hakata Old Town”.

This tour, conducted in English, will guide participants on foot to two Zen temples: Jotenji, with its beautiful Karesansui (dry landscape) garden, and Myōrakuji, where participants can experience Zen meditation. At the end of the tour, all participants will be served matcha tea.

Jotenji, founded in 1242 by Shouichi Kokushi, who studied in the Song dynasty, is said to be the first place in Japan where methods for making udon, soba, and manju were introduced. Jotenji is also known as the birthplace of the famous Hakata Gion Yamakasa summer festival.

Myōrakuji was opened in 1316 by Getsudō Sōki. During Hakata’s period of prosperity through trade with China, Myōrakuji served as an important site for foreign negotiations. Here, you can experience Zen, the discipline of aligning one’s mind.

Tour Information

Dates: July 13th (Thurs), 20th (Thurs), 27th (Thurs)

Participation Fee: ¥3,500 (Please pay in cash (JPY) to the English guide at the start of the tour)

Meeting Time: 15:00

Meeting Place: JR Hakata Station

Duration: Approximately 2 hours

Disbanding Location: Gion Subway Station at 17:00

Maximum Number of Participants: 8 (First-come, first-served basis)

Organizer: Hakata Guide Association (a specialist guide group for Hakata)

*The Hakata Guide Association cannot be held responsible for any accidents that occur during the tour.

Application Information

To apply, please email the following information to hakatanomiryoku@city.fukuoka.lg.jp

– Preferred participation date: July 13th, 20th, or 27th

– Full name: (in case of groups, the name of the group representative)

– Number of participants:

– Nationality:

– Email address:

– Any specific needs or considerations for participants, anything else you wish to convey beforehand

* After your application is received, you will be informed of the acceptance status by email within two business days. * For any queries, please email hakatanomiryoku@city.fukuoka.lg.jp.