HOME > Japan’s Local Treasures > Spiritual Retreat at Ryusenji Temple
Discover serenity and cultural heritage at Yudonosan Ryusenji Temple in Akita Prefecture, where tradition and nature harmoniously intertwine.
Akita Shirakami Tourism
Yudonosan Ryusenji Temple, located in Noshiro City, Akita Prefecture, offers visitors the opportunity to experience traditional Japanese cultural activities such as sutra copying (shakyo) and juzu rosary-making. These activities are designed to foster spiritual reflection and provide a deep connection to Buddhist practices. On the 13th of each month at noon, you can also join a goma fire ritual, where participants write their wishes on thin wooden sticks, which are then offered to the flames by the temple’s head nun.
The temple, with a history that goes back to the Yamato period（300–710） has become a significant cultural site under the guidance of priest Shosen Kimura. Uniquely, it does not have a traditional parish community, but instead relies on the support of visitors who come to take part in various rituals and activities. Kimura is dedicated to making the temple more accessible to both locals and visitors from outside the region, aiming to use this sacred space as a catalyst for community revitalization and engagement.
Surrounded by the natural beauty of Noshiro Park, with clear views of the Shirakami Mountains, the temple offers a peaceful environment for meditation and reflection. Visitors can enjoy the seasonal changes in the park’s vibrant flora, adding to the serene atmosphere. With English support available and souvenirs like organic tea and goshuin stamps, Yudonosan Ryusenji Temple offers an immersive cultural experience in Japan.
How to get there
By Train: From Tokyo Station, take the Akita Shinkansen to Akita Station (3 hours 40 minutes). From there, switch to the JR Ou Line and ride to Higashi-Noshiro Station (1 hour 10 minutes), then take the Gono Line train to Noshiro Station (5 minutes). The temple is a 15-minute walk from the station.
By Plane: From Haneda Airport, take a flight to Odate Noshiro Airport (1 hour 10 minutes). Ryusenji Temple is a 50-minute drive from the airport.
7-23 Seisukemachi, Noshiro-shi, Akita-ken
