Osorezan (Mount Osore)

Temple

Prefecture

Aomori

Type

Temple

N/A

0 reviews

¥500

Entry Fee

About This Destination

Osorezan (Mount Osore) in Mutsu, Aomori is one of Japan's three most sacred places alongside Mount Koya and Mount Hiei. The barren volcanic landscape of sulfurous vents, a crater lake, and colorful mineral deposits creates an otherworldly atmosphere. Bodaiji Temple on site hosts the famous Itako mediums festival in July. Open May to October only.

Volcanic steam rises from barren sulfurous landscapes at this remote temple complex believed to be a gateway between the living world and the afterlife. Bodaiji Temple sits amid an otherworldly terrain of bubbling hot springs, colorful mineral deposits, and the serene Lake Usori, where the souls of deceased children are said to gather. During the July and October festivals, itako spirit mediums channel messages from the dead, drawing families hoping to communicate with departed loved ones at one of Japan's most spiritually charged locations.

Location

Prefecture: Aomori

Address: Mutsu, Aomori, Japan

Nearest Station: Shimokita Station (JR Ominato Line)

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Visitor Information

Credit Cards: Unknown

Access

Aomori, Japan

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Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Osorezan?

Osorezan is only open May to October (closed in winter due to snow). The July Itako Festival (around July 20-24) features spirit mediums channeling messages from the dead—unique but very crowded. For a quieter atmospheric visit, come in late September or early October when autumn colors begin.

What should I expect at Osorezan?

Expect an otherworldly volcanic landscape with sulfur vents, colorful mineral deposits, and serene Lake Usori. Bodaiji Temple sits amid this stark terrain. You'll see pinwheels and offerings for deceased children. The atmosphere is deeply spiritual. There are also free hot spring baths (rotenburo) included with admission.

What's the entry fee and how do I get there?

Adult entry ¥500 (free under 12). Open 6:00–18:00 daily, May–October only. From JR Shimokita Station (90 min from Aomori on the JR Ominato Line, ¥1,690), take Shimokita Kotsu bus to Osorezan terminal — 45 minutes (¥850, runs 4–5 times daily May–October). Last return bus around 16:00. By car: 45 minutes from Shimokita Station via Route 4. Limited parking on-site; arrive early on festival days.

Can I stay overnight at Osorezan?

Yes — Bodaiji Temple operates the Kichijoukaku shukubo (temple lodging) on the grounds. Single room ¥12,000+ per person with vegetarian shojin-ryori dinner, breakfast, and morning prayer service. The atmosphere at dusk and dawn — when day visitors leave — is unlike anywhere else; the volcanic landscape under starlight or pre-dawn mist is unforgettable. Reservations open 1 year in advance via phone (Japanese only); festival dates fill within hours.

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