Nestled approximately 1 kilometer southeast of Hirosaki Park, Kongozan Saishoin Temple, a serene Buddhist temple of the Chizan sect of Shingon Buddhism, houses the magnificent Five-Storied Pagoda of Saishoin Temple. Designated as a National Important Cultural Property, this pagoda is celebrated as the most beautiful in the Tohoku region and stands as the northernmost five-storied pagoda in Japan.
Starting April 2025, Saishoin Temple will offer an exclusive overnight experience, Temple Stay (Terahaku), limited to one group (2-3 people) per day, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the temple’s rich history and tranquil atmosphere.
Outside of special festivals, the temple grounds are typically closed to the public from 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. However, Terahaku guests will enjoy private access during these hours, reveling in the serene ambiance of the temple grounds under the starlit sky.
A highlight of the stay is the rare opportunity to explore the interior of several halls, including the Five-Storied Pagoda of Saishoin Temple, which is usually opened to the public only once every several decades. Other halls are opened only once a year.
Guests can also partake in the profound Shingon meditation technique, “Gachirinkan” (moon ring viewing), and witness the awe-inspiring morning flame ceremony, “Goma”.
Saishoin Temple’s convenient location, a mere 5-minute drive or 15-minute walk from Hirosaki Park, a renowned cherry blossom viewing spot, allows guests to enjoy the breathtaking sight of cherry blossoms on the temple grounds during the blooming season. As an optional tour exclusively for Terahaku guests, a special visit to Miura Sake Brewery, the esteemed brewer of “Hohai” Japanese sake, is also available.
Room rates start from 198,000 yen to 275,000 yen per night for double occupancy (as of April 2025).
For more information