Japan Kido Buddhist mountain temple complex, Sasaguri Kyushu

Just outside the bustling city of Fukuoka is the small town of Kido, set in the mountains, and home to a giant sleeping Buddha statue that was a gift from Myanmar. The temple complex that houses it is mostly visited by pilgrims and locals. The temple complex itself is remarkable for its layout up a steep hillside with its two parts connected by a long tunnel lined with plaques commemorating donors. Small trails snake up the mountain through the forest, over waterfalls and past small shrines and decorative ponds. Although not as spectacular as the temples of Kyoto, it's hard not to feel the deep sense of peace and tranquility that pervades this beautiful location.

The light here can be very soft so make sure to take a fast lens. Mists are quite common, yielding some interesting opportunities for shooting the lush alpine forest.

It's possible to drive and there is a small carpark next to the train station. The best way is to take the train to Sasaguri from Yoshizuka station or Hakata station if you are coming from Fukuoka. The full station name is Kidonanzoinmae, about two stops past Sasaguri station. The train takes about 20-40 minutes depending on how often it stops along the way. Exit the station, walk across the bridge, cross the road and walk slightly up the hill to the temple complex entrance. This is rural Japan so expect everything to start closing up around 3-4pm, especially in the winter months.