Where exactly is Dairyuji located?

Visiting Dairyuji is fun and easy!

A few people have reached out wondering where exactly is Dairyuji located?

Well, first of all we are in Japan! Specifically on the Oga Peninsula in Akita prefecture. Akita is part of the Tohoku region in the northern part of the main island Honshu.

Akita means “fall rice field” and produces popular rice such as Komachi. One of the local cuisines is Kiritampo made out of pounded rice cakes and seasonal fall vegetables.

Akita is probably best known as the namesake of the Akita breed of dogs. There is a famous statute of Hachiko outside of Shibuya station. Hachiko was indeed a real dog and originally from Odate in northern Akita. They are gorgeous and loyal dogs.

Dairyuji is located on the Oga peninsula which has a stunning coastline and mountain interior. Namahage is a local folklore and custom that is still upheld to this day in Oga.

I wrote an article all about Oga for Tokyo Weekender if you want to learn more inside tips on the area.

You can fly to Akita (1hr) or take the Shinkansen bullet train. The train to Akita is called the Komachi after the local rice. It’s take approximately 3 hrs and 40 minutes to travel from Tokyo station to Akita station. It is another hour on the JR train to Oga station, the last stop on the line. From there, Dairyuji is about an 8 minute walk. Check out JR EAST for tickets.

It is a wonderful journey up to Oga. Although it may look remote it is a straightforward trip, perfect for an easy weekend getaway.

If you want to visit Dairyuji, we are open daily from 8:30 - 4:00 pm.

We are also hosting a Zen Mindfulness retreat October 25th - 27th. This is a unique opportunity to stay at a temple, learn about Zen and Japanese culture, practice meditation and yoga, eat great food and enjoy time simply resting and relaxing.

Learn more HERE