Zen buddhist Temple
Dairyuji is a Zen Buddhist temple of the Soto-shu sect in Japan. Meaning Big Dragon Temple, Dairyuji is located on the Oga peninsula in northern Japan.With a history of over 800 years, the working temple continues to maintain local traditions as well as welcome visitors.
The Legend of Dairyuji
There is a legend about a dragon who, living in the nearby Sea of Japan, transformed into a beautiful woman. Full of despair she sought out Dairyuji`s priest for healing and found contentment through the Buddhist teachings. Becoming a disciple she shaved her head as a symbol of rejecting earthly desires. Before returning to the sea she left her hair which was turned into a `housu`, a treasured talisman which is still used today during important ceremonies at Dairyuji.
The History of Dairyuji
Dairyuji was established over 800 years ago and joined the Soto-shu sect in 1577. The temple moved twice and has been in the current location since 1932. Keno Miura is the 38th head priest.
The Soto-shu sect of Zen Buddhism was brought to Japan from China by Dogen Zenji. He built Eiheiji monastery in Fukui prefecture in 1244.
Buddha achieved enlightenment through meditation, therefore Zen Buddhism focuses on sitting zazen. Creating a mindful practice of meditating allows you to see the world as it truly is.
Visit Dairyuji
You are welcome to visit Dairyuji anytime of the year.
You can enjoy the four seasons at Dairyuji with azalea bushes blooming in May, cool breezes blowing up from the sea in the summer, maple leaves turning red in autumn and snow falling softly in the garden during winter. We also encourage you to explore the outdoor temple grounds including the Kannon-sama statue. Views of Mt. Kanpu and the Sea of Japan can be best seen from bell tower where you can also ring the bell.
After touring the temple, visitors are invited to relax in the Rakusuitei room situated near the water garden. Zafu cushions are available for zazen meditation to use at your leisure.
Hours
Open daily:
8:30am to 4:30pm April to October
8:30am to 4:00 November to March.
A donation of ¥500 is appreciated to help maintain the temple.
Dairyuji is not a monastery that can host long term residents. Please join our biannual retreat or visit during the day.
Other Soto-shu Zen Temples that accommodate visitors in English.
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Dairyuji is family run.
Keno and Gretchen Miura are the newest generation to run Dairyuji. Raising their four children in Oga, they are passionate about serving the community. Keno has traveled the world and brings a grounded humility and joy to his daily work as head priest. Originally from America, Gretchen is a mindfulness meditation teacher, grief educator and retreat coordinator. Together they hope Dairyuji can cultivate meaningful connections and create a more compassionate world.