Nyoirin-ji (Ogori)

Nyoirin-ji is a Buddhist temple located in Ogori City, Fukuoka Prefecture, Japan. It is affiliated with the Shingon sect. The temple is known for its thousands of small frog statues, often referred to as "Frog Temple" or "Kaeru-dera" in Japanese. These frog statues are believed to bring good luck and prosperity, particularly in bringing back things that have been lost, be it objects, people, or good fortune.

The origin of the frog statues is attributed to a local legend involving a priest who prayed for the return of lost items and was inspired by a frog. Over time, the tradition grew, and worshippers began donating frog statues to the temple.

Besides the frog statues, Nyoirin-ji also features a main hall (hondo) and other traditional temple structures. The temple grounds are particularly beautiful during the rainy season, when the frog statues are surrounded by lush greenery. The temple is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from both Japan and overseas who are drawn to its unique atmosphere and the symbolism of the frog statues.