Dairyuji Temple
Discover the serenity of Zen and rich history of Dairyuji temple, surrounded by nature with stunning views of the Sea of Japan.
Dairyuji is a community based Soto-shu Zen Buddhist temple located on the Oga peninsula in northern Japan.
Visitors are welcome to enjoy the natural beauty of the four seasons at Dairyuji with azalea bushes blooming in May, cool breezes blowing up from the sea in the summer, momiji maple leaves turning red in autumn and snow falling softly in the garden during winter. We encourage you to explore the many buddhist butsuzo displayed, including the Kannon-sama (bodhisattva of compassion) statue. Views of Mt. Kanpu can best be seen from the dragon tower where you can ring the bell, feeling the deep resonance as its sound vibrates through the air.
After touring the temple, visitors are invited to relax in the historical Rakusuitei room situated near the water garden. Meditation cushions are available to use at your leisure.
Open daily from 9:00am ~ 4:00pm.
A dana donation of ¥500 per person is deeply appreciated
Join our free and beginner friendly zazen meditation session every Thursday morning 6:30 am ~ 7:00am.
Zen Mindfulness Retreat
Our November 6th ~ 8th, 2026 retreat is fully booked.
Please check back for Spring 2027 dates!
Oga Peninsula
Dairyuji is located in Akita prefecture, in the northern Tohoku region of Japan on the Oga Peninsula. Local traditions and sustainable living with the land are deeply valued here. You can enjoy mountains, vast rice fields and the rugged coastline of the Sea of Japan all within the peninsula. Dairyuji is within walking distance from the Oga train station and can also be easily accessed by car.
