Pilgrimage to Osorezan Bodaiji

Osorezan, located in the center of the Shimokita Peninsula, is one of Japan's three great sacred places alongside Hieizan and Koyasan. The contrast between the desolate rocky terrain where sulfur steam rises and the white sand beach of Lake Usori—evoking the paradise of Pure Land Buddhism—truly feels like the boundary between the afterlife and this world. There is also a free hot spring within the temple grounds where you can purify yourself in the sulfur waters. During the grand festivals in July and October, Itako perform kuchiyose (spirit channeling), offering mystical experiences of communicating with the spirits of the deceased. This special sacred place is open only for half a year, from May to October.