Unique Temple Stay in Aomori: Overnight at Saishoin with Pagoda Views
Tucked away in Hirosaki, Aomori, Saishoin Temple is a historic gem of the Chisan school of Shingon Buddhism. This revered temple carries on the faith and history of the Tsugaru region. Its iconic five-story pagoda—considered the most beautiful in Tohoku—is a National Important Cultural Property, blending centuries of tradition with stunning natural scenery. But what makes it truly special? You can actually stay overnight here. Saishoin offers a rare temple stay experience, limited to only one group per night. From your room, you’ll have a direct view of the pagoda—and once evening falls, the quiet temple grounds are all yours. Take part in morning rituals, fire ceremonies, and evening meditation for a peaceful, one-of-a-kind stay. The pagoda reveals different faces by day and night, and there are views you can only see if you spend the night. It’s more than sightseeing—it’s a deep, soulful dive into the quiet magic of Hirosaki, Aomori.
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Best Shot? Try the 45-Degree Angle – Nature’s Magic in Every Season
Built in the Edo period, Saishoin’s five-story pagoda is praised for its perfect symmetry and hidden interior vibrance. Want the best photo? Shoot from a 45-degree angle! Whether it’s cherry blossoms in spring, colorful leaves in fall, or snow in winter, the pagoda always looks like it’s straight out of a painting.
A Temple Stay Like No Other – Sleep with a Pagoda View
Only one group per night gets to experience Saishoin’s special overnight stay, known as terahaku. From your room, the pagoda looks like a framed painting—so beautiful, you’ll find yourself lost in it, forgetting the time. After the temple closes to the public, you can explore the peaceful grounds without a soul in sight. It’s like having the entire temple to yourself.
Yours Alone – The Tranquil Nighttime Temple Experience
One of the biggest perks of staying over? Having the illuminated pagoda all to yourself at night. The quiet, the glow—it’s almost meditative. Even better, overnight guests are allowed to step inside the first floor of the pagoda for an up-close look at its intricate craftsmanship, details you just can’t appreciate from photos.
Morning Fire Rituals and Nighttime Meditation – A Spiritual Reset
Start your day at 6:30 a.m. with a traditional fire ritual, goma kitou. Under the guidance of the head priest, you’ll write your wish on a wooden stick and offer it to the flames. It’s a calming, deeply reflective experience that helps reset your mind. At night, join a guided moon meditation session called Gachirinkan. With slow breathing and quiet reflection, it’s the perfect way to unwind and reconnect—with yourself. Information
| Address | 63 Doyamachi, Hirosaki City, Aomori Prefecture |
|---|---|
| Getting There | By Shinkansen: Tokyo Station (Shinkansen): about 3 hr → Shin-Aomori Station (train): about 40 min → Hirosaki Station (bus): about 12 min → Saishō-in Temple By Air: Haneda Airport (flight): about 1 hr → Aomori Airport (taxi): about 50 min → Saishō-in Temple |
| Website | https://www.saisyouin.jp/en/ |
| Opening Hours | Open daily 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM |
| Average Budget | Payment must be made in advance through the reservation website only. |
| Reservations | Reservation required through the Hirosaki Tourism and Convention Bureau website below. |
| Online Booking | https://www.hirosaki-kanko.or.jp/details.html?id=CNT00403281645099283 |
| Available Languages | Japanese only. Temple staff can assist using a translation app. |
| Additional Information | Special Program for Temple Guests Only: The temple is illuminated every night, but for overnight guests, the entire temple grounds are specially lit up. After the gates close at 5:00 PM, guests can enjoy exclusive access to the serene grounds. Lights off at 10:00 PM. Night Event: Gachirinkan Morning Events: Join the morning service, experience the Goma fire ritual, and enjoy an exclusive viewing inside the Five-Story Pagoda. |
| https://www.instagram.com/saisyouin_hirosaki/?hl=ja | |
| Youtube | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=khipBPtiRWY |
Manners to Follow
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Gently ring the waniguchi(traditional temple gong) -
Keep your voice down in the temple grounds -
Do not use drones
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