HomeTripsToursBlogGuidesPlaces
Cart
Trip To Japan
  • YouTube
  • Instagram

About Trip To Japan

Company

  • About Us
  • Careers
    New!
  • Blog
  • Travel Guide
  • All tours
  • All trips
  • Groups

Partners

  • Tour operator signup
  • Hotel signup
  • Creator signup
    New!

Contact us

+81 03-4578-2152

info@triptojapan.com

Address

Takanawa Travel K.K.,
Kitashinagawa 5-11-1
Shinagawa, Tokyo, Japan

Ribbon illustration

License

Certified Travel License
Tokyo Metropolitan Government Office: No.3-8367
Japan Travel

QualityTermsPrivacyCommerce Disclosure
© Takanawa Travel

Daiyūzan Saijo-ji Temple
Daiyūzan Saijo-ji Temple
Daiyūzan Saijo-ji Temple
Daiyūzan Saijo-ji Temple
Daiyūzan Saijo-ji Temple
Daiyūzan Saijo-ji Temple
Hakone

Daiyūzan Saijo-ji Temple

4.5 (3175)Buddhist TempleTourist AttractionPlace Of WorshipAssociation Or OrganizationPoint Of InterestEstablishment

Step into the tranquility of Daiyūzan Saijo-ji Temple, a hidden gem in the lush landscapes near Hakone. This Soto Zen Buddhist temple, founded in 1394 by Ryoan Emyo Zenji, is a testament to centuries of spiritual devotion and architectural splendor.

As you explore, you'll be greeted by towering cedar trees, some over 500 years old, and the enigmatic presence of tengu statues, mythical creatures believed to protect the temple. The temple complex boasts around 30 buildings, including the impressive Hondo, Kaisando, and Myogaku halls.

Climbing the 350 steps to the Okunoin Temple offers breathtaking views and a profound sense of peace. Take advantage of the world's largest geta, symbolizing marital harmony and happiness, displayed near the Goshin-den pavilion.

Plan your visit to this serene sanctuary, which is easily accessible by bus from Daiyuzan Station or a scenic drive from Odawara. Whether seeking spiritual solace or simply a picturesque retreat, Daiyūzan Saijo-ji Temple promises an unforgettable experience.

Visit soon and let the serene beauty of this sacred place captivate your senses.

Hours

6:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Closed

No closing days

Available

All year

Minimum Age

All ages are welcome.

Admission Fee

Free


Hours
Sunday: 6:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Monday: 6:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Tuesday: 6:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Wednesday: 6:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Thursday: 6:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Friday: 6:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Saturday: 6:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Phone
+81 465-74-3121
Website
www.daiyuuzan.or.jp


The area

Address
1157 Daiyūchō, Minamiashigara, Kanagawa 250-0127, Japan

Hours

Sunday: 6:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Monday: 6:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Tuesday: 6:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Wednesday: 6:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Thursday: 6:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Friday: 6:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Saturday: 6:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Phone

+81 465-74-3121

Website

www.daiyuuzan.or.jp

What other travelers are saying about Daiyūzan Saijo-ji Temple

Such a beautiful and unique temple. It’s also the starting and/or finish point for the climb to Mt. Myojingatake. This temple complex is huge and has many buildings and parts to it. Be ready for A LOT of stairs if u want to explore all of it.

Nearby attractions to see

A white Japanese castle rises behind blooming cherry blossom trees under a clear blue sky, capturing a serene spring scene.

Odawara Castle

A decorative wooden box with a hinged lid, covered in intricate geometric mosaic patterns in shades of brown, yellow, white, and black. The patterns feature diamonds, squares, and star designs.

Hakone-Yosegi-Zaiku

A modern museum entrance under a partly cloudy sky, featuring curved, dark pillars supporting a detailed white archway adorned with classical relief sculptures. The surrounding area includes a cobblestone walkway, trees, and a backdrop of distant mountains.

Hakone Open-Air Museum

Nearby attractions to see

A white Japanese castle rises behind blooming cherry blossom trees under a clear blue sky, capturing a serene spring scene.

Odawara Castle

A decorative wooden box with a hinged lid, covered in intricate geometric mosaic patterns in shades of brown, yellow, white, and black. The patterns feature diamonds, squares, and star designs.

Hakone-Yosegi-Zaiku

A modern museum entrance under a partly cloudy sky, featuring curved, dark pillars supporting a detailed white archway adorned with classical relief sculptures. The surrounding area includes a cobblestone walkway, trees, and a backdrop of distant mountains.

Hakone Open-Air Museum


More about Daiyūzan Saijo-ji Temple from our blog

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, photography is allowed in most areas of the temple, but it is essential to be respectful and not disturb others by praying or meditating.

Daiyūzan Saijo-ji Temple hosts various events and ceremonies throughout the year, including meditation retreats and traditional Buddhist rituals. Check their official website for a schedule of upcoming events.

Yes, there is a paid parking lot near the entrance of the temple complex. However, it is recommended to take public transportation or walk if possible, as the roads to the temple can be narrow and congested.

A few small shops sell snacks and drinks within the temple grounds. Several restaurants and cafes are nearby if you want a larger meal before or after your visit.

Unfortunately, there is no official English-speaking guide at Daiyūzan Saijo-ji Temple. However, some staff members may have basic knowledge of English and are usually very helpful in providing information and assistance to visitors.
  1. Home
  2. Places
  3. Hakone
  4. Daiyūzan Saijo-ji Temple
Profile
Matan Katz
Dec 1, 2025
What a gem. Off the beaten path for most tourists this 14th century group of temples nestled in a 400 year old cedar forest is serene, enchanting, and thoroughly peaceful. Take the train to Daiyuzan, then walk through then suburb for about 1.5 miles. Then you get to walk another 1.5 miles but on a path through the 400 year old cedars. Magical. When you are done with the temples continue the short walk to the Only Yu Onsen. The combo makes for a fabulous day in Japan.
Profile
Kevin Joyce
Sep 26, 2025
It's a different world. Up in the mountains away from the crowd and noise of the city. Did zen meditation(坐禅)which was so purifying! The priest had a great sense of humour as well! The young monks were very gentle as well!
Profile
Sourabh Maiti (太郎)
Oct 26, 2025
The temple is a vast complex to explore - the highlights are the giant red flip flops or geta. The main temple has a very colorful hall with magenta and red decoration along with an ornate gold chandelier, very dramatic. The century old structures are well preserved and intricate. The winged and beak kami is different from other temples as well. Free parking is available. Overall, I will return in the fall, I saw many Japanese maple trees on site and it would be gorgeous during momiji season.
Profile
Annie Sobol
Jul 5, 2022
This is probably the best temple I've seen in Japan which is as form of Buddhism called Soutoushu. In Autumn the colors are amazing and set amongst an amazing forest the trees are incredibly big over 500 years old and really something out of a surreal fantasy movie. The temples and the entire precinct are amazing because they are set on a hillside and there are few steps to climb vut will and truly worth the visit. Again this Temple is set off the normal tourist beaten track and one for the locals but do yourself a favour and see this temple. Set in gold It's amazing and everything you think Japan should be, immaculate, heart felt and beautiful.
Profile
Brendan Carroll
Nov 21, 2022
Best Day Trips in Japan

Top 10 Best Day Trips in Japan You Can't Miss

December 18, 2025
A bustling crowd walking towards Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine in Kamakura, Japan. The main torii gate and pavilion of the shrine are visible amidst lush greenery. Colorful banners and signs flank both sides of the pathway, under a clear sky.

Escape Tokyo: Day Trips and Excursions to Explore Japan's Beauty

April 11, 2025
Mount Fuji

Shooting Japan: Expert Photography Tips for Travelers

December 18, 2025
Read blog