Seiryu-ji Temple Showa Daibutsu
Home to Japan's tallest seated bronze Buddha, Seiryuji Temple offers a serene escape with stunning architecture and peaceful gardens.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Experience ultimate peace
Seiryu-ji Temple Showa Daibutsu
Best Time
Experience ultimate peace
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Home to Japan's tallest seated bronze Buddha, Seiryuji Temple offers a serene escape with stunning architecture and peaceful gardens.
"A quiet encounter with Japan's largest seated bronze Buddha, offering peace and timeless beauty."
🎯 Respectful Visit
This is an active place of worship and has a cemetery. Observe courtesy and maintain a peaceful demeanor.
💰 Affordable Entry
A small entrance fee of ¥400 grants access to the grounds and the Great Buddha hall.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Showa Daibutsu (Great Buddha)
Main Hall
Japan's tallest seated bronze Buddha, standing at 21.35 meters, offering an awe-inspiring and peaceful encounter.
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Five-Story Pagoda
Temple Grounds
A striking traditional pagoda set amidst serene gardens, adding to the temple's tranquil atmosphere.
Interior of the Great Buddha
Inside Showa Daibutsu
Explore the multi-level interior with Buddhist artwork and sacred spaces for a calm, immersive journey.
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Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds for Serenity
Plan Your Return Trip
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Respectful Visit
This is an active place of worship and has a cemetery. Observe courtesy and maintain a peaceful demeanor.
💰 Affordable Entry
A small entrance fee of ¥400 grants access to the grounds and the Great Buddha hall.
🚶♀️ Peaceful Stroll
Wander through serene gardens and walking paths for unhurried reflection and a Zen experience.
🙏 Offerings Available
Candles and incense are available for offering at the Great Buddha for a small fee (¥100).
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Respectful Visit
This is an active place of worship and has a cemetery. Observe courtesy and maintain a peaceful demeanor.
💰 Affordable Entry
A small entrance fee of ¥400 grants access to the grounds and the Great Buddha hall.
🚶♀️ Peaceful Stroll
Wander through serene gardens and walking paths for unhurried reflection and a Zen experience.
🙏 Offerings Available
Candles and incense are available for offering at the Great Buddha for a small fee (¥100).
♿ Wheelchair Accessible
The temple grounds and facilities are accessible for visitors with mobility needs.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Seiryuji Temple for its serene atmosphere and the awe-inspiring presence of Japan's tallest seated bronze Buddha, the Showa Daibutsu. Many find the experience deeply peaceful and appreciate the well-maintained grounds and the opportunity to explore the interior of the statue. Some note that transportation planning is essential for the return journey, and while generally quiet, it can be busier during peak summer.
"Tucked into a corner of East Aomori, away from the city, this Buddhist Temple is a must visit. Featuring the largest Seating Buddha in Japan, she truly is a sight to behold. There is no wait at the entrance, after a small entrance fee, there are all sorts of sourvenirs and Buddhist talismans you can buy at the entrance. You can also get a blessing stamp at the same entrance shop. En route to the Big Buddha, there is a temple you can pray for good health. At the Big Buddha, you can offer candles or incense at 100 yen each. Fret not if you do not have change, there is a coin changing machine here. On your way down, there are many gods and deities of Chinese and Japanese faiths. If you are tired, there is also a Soba and sweets shop to rest and feed. I came to Aomori for Nebuta festival, thus it's right smack in the height of summer. Yet it is chill and cooling here on the of my visit. You might wish to dress accordingly. Although in the miste of a pine forest, I did not felt humid nor disturbed by any insect. Perhaps cos I am a faithful pilgrim. I felt totally at peace here, totally Zen. If you do visit, please observe courtesy as Buddhists do pray here, and there is a local cemetery on the grounds. That said, I hope you can find inner peace here as I did.
From the Aomori City station you can take J20 bus and conveniently disembark on its doorstep. Though you might want to plan your return thoroughly ahead. Peace~"
Kim Wee Soh
"No need to buy tickets in advance. If you take an Uber here, please note that it can be a challenge to get a taxi if leaving later in the day. When we arrived there were plenty waiting and available, but none were around when we wanted to leave in the late afternoon. Very beautiful area, lovely temples."
Bryan Bedessem
"A Quiet Encounter with Japan’s Largest Seated Bronze Buddha
Tucked in the forested hills just outside Aomori City, the Showa Daibutsu at Seiryū‑ji Temple offers a peaceful counterpoint to Japan’s urban pulse. Towering at 21.35 meters, this is the tallest seated bronze Buddha in the country — and yet, the surrounding stillness makes the experience feel intimate rather than grandiose.
The temple grounds are serene and beautifully kept, with a five-story pagoda and walking paths that encourage unhurried reflection. Inside the Buddha, a multi-level interior reveals Buddhist artwork and sacred spaces — a calm, immersive journey upward through color and quiet.
Getting here is easy by bus, but the true reward is stepping away from the noise to stand in the presence of something timeless"
Lawrence Goodrich
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can take the J20 bus directly from Aomori City Station, which conveniently stops at the temple's doorstep. Plan your return trip carefully as taxis can be scarce later in the day.
While taxis may be available upon arrival, they can be challenging to find when you wish to leave, especially in the late afternoon. It's advisable to check bus schedules for your return.
Uber is an option for reaching the temple, but as mentioned, securing a return ride might be difficult.
Seiryuji Temple is situated in the suburbs of Aomori City, nestled at the foot of a low hill and surrounded by a pine forest.
The most recommended way is by public bus (J20 line from Aomori City Station) for convenience.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no need to buy tickets in advance. You can purchase your entrance ticket upon arrival.
The entrance fee is ¥400 per person.
Information on specific discounts is not widely available, but the standard entrance fee is quite reasonable.
The temple is generally open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with shorter hours during winter (9:00 AM to 4:00 PM).
Yes, you can get a blessing stamp at the entrance shop where souvenirs are also sold.
🎫 compass Onsite Experience
The main attraction is the Showa Daibutsu, Japan's tallest seated bronze Buddha statue, standing at an impressive 21.35 meters.
Yes, you can walk inside the statue, which features stairs leading upwards and displays Buddhist artwork.
The temple grounds feature a beautiful five-story pagoda, shrines, serene gardens, and walking paths for reflection.
Absolutely. The temple is known for its peaceful atmosphere, especially outside of peak times, offering a serene escape.
Yes, there is a Soba and sweets shop on the grounds where you can rest and enjoy refreshments.
📸 camera_with_flash Photography
Photography is generally allowed on the temple grounds, but it's always good practice to be mindful of worshippers and avoid intrusive photography, especially inside sacred buildings.
The imposing Showa Daibutsu statue from various angles, the five-story pagoda against the natural backdrop, and the serene temple gardens offer excellent photo opportunities.
Photography inside the Great Buddha is usually permitted, but be respectful of the sacred art and spaces.
Specific drone regulations are not mentioned, but it's advisable to check local rules and temple policies before flying drones.
A wide-angle lens is useful for capturing the scale of the Great Buddha and the pagoda. A standard zoom lens is versatile for general shots. +1
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The temple grounds are spacious and feature serene gardens and walking paths, allowing children to explore safely. The five-story pagoda is also visually interesting. While the atmosphere is tranquil, the open spaces can accommodate a family's energy. Consider visiting during less crowded times to ensure a more relaxed experience for everyone.
🧘 Solo Travelers & Spiritual Seekers
Exploring the interior of the Great Buddha and wandering the peaceful grounds can be a deeply rewarding personal experience. The temple's atmosphere is conducive to finding inner peace and a sense of Zen.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
The five-story pagoda offers a classic Japanese architectural subject, especially when framed by the surrounding nature. The temple's serene gardens and traditional buildings also provide picturesque scenes. Consider visiting during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset for softer light and a more atmospheric feel, though be mindful of opening hours.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Majestic Showa Daibutsu
+2 The sheer scale of the statue is designed to evoke a sense of awe and tranquility, offering visitors a profound encounter with Buddhist art and spirituality. Visitors can not only admire the statue from the outside but also explore its multi-level interior. Inside, you'll find a journey through Buddhist artwork, sacred spaces, and quiet contemplation areas. The ascent within the statue provides unique perspectives and a deeper appreciation for its construction and spiritual significance.
The statue was built approximately 100 years ago, making it a significant historical and cultural monument. Its presence in Aomori offers a peaceful counterpoint to the bustling urban environment, inviting visitors to find inner peace.
Exploring the Temple Grounds
The temple is surrounded by peaceful gardens and walking paths, encouraging visitors to take their time and engage in quiet reflection. These areas are ideal for a leisurely stroll, allowing you to absorb the natural beauty and the temple's tranquil energy.
For those seeking a moment of respite, a Soba and sweets shop is available on the grounds, offering a place to rest and enjoy refreshments. The temple also has a local cemetery, underscoring its role as a place of remembrance and spiritual connection.
Accessibility and Visitor Comfort
Clean restrooms are available, adding to the overall comfort of your visit. For those who wish to make offerings, there are opportunities to do so at the Great Buddha, with candles and incense available for a small fee. A coin-changing machine is also provided for convenience.
Souvenirs and Buddhist talismans are sold at the entrance shop, offering a chance to take a piece of the temple's spiritual essence home with you. The temple also offers a blessing stamp service at the same location.
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