Deep within the Shimokita Peninsula lies Mount Osore (Osorezan), one of “Japan’s Three Great Sacred Sites” alongside Mount Hiei and Mount Koya. Said to have been founded in 862 (Jogan 4) by the Buddhist monk Ennin (posthumously known as Jikaku Daishi), this spiritually powerful place boasts over 1,100 years of history.
The temple grounds, permeated with the smell of sulfur and featuring desolate rocky landscapes, evoke images of “the afterworld” with their distinctive scenery. The beautiful cobalt blue of Lake Usori contrasts with hellish landscapes like the “Blood Pond Hell” and “Sai no Kawara” (riverbed where children’s souls gather), creating an atmosphere that truly feels like the boundary between life and death.
During the “Osorezan Grand Festival” in July and “Osorezan Autumn Pilgrimage” in October, “Itako no Kuchiyose” (spirit medium séances) are performed to call forth the spirits of the deceased, attracting pilgrims from across Japan. While access takes about 2.5 hours by car from Aomori Station, this very remoteness preserves the sacred atmosphere, keeping it separated from the secular world.
Mount Osore was founded in 862 (Jogan 4) by Ennin, a high priest of the Tendai Buddhist sect. It is said that after returning from Tang China, Ennin was guided to this location by a divine dream and established a temple with Jizo Bodhisattva as the principal deity.
The official name is “Osorezan Bodaiji Temple,” a Soto Zen temple. The principal deity, Jizo Bodhisattva, is worshipped as a buddha who saves the souls of the dead. Particularly in the Tohoku region, there is a belief that “when people die, they go to Osorezan,” and this place has been treasured as a gathering place for the souls of the deceased.
The origin of the name “Osore” (meaning “fear” in Japanese) has several theories, but the most prevalent suggests it derives from the Ainu word “Usori” (meaning a hollow or bay). Lake Usori’s name also comes from this origin.
Architecture and Natural Features
Mount Osore’s temple grounds cover a vast area of approximately 3.3 square kilometers, located within a caldera surrounded by outer rim mountains. The elevation is approximately 879 meters. Geothermal activity and sulfur gas emissions from volcanic activity can be seen throughout, forming the distinctive “hell” landscapes.
Within the grounds, there are said to be 136 different “hells,” including “Blood Pond Hell,” “Mugen (Infinite) Hell,” and “Kanabori (Gold Mining) Hell.” The contrast between the sulfur-whitened rock surfaces and the emerald green of Lake Usori is spectacular. Particularly, “Gokuraku-hama” (Paradise Beach) along the lake shore, with its white sand and cobalt blue water, presents beauty reminiscent of the Pure Land paradise.
The main hall, Jizo-den, was rebuilt in 1950 and stands as an imposing structure. Within the grounds are four hot spring baths (Yakushi-no-yu, Reinuki-no-yu, Furutaki-no-yu, and Hanazome-no-yu) available free to worshippers. These sulfur springs have been cherished as “sacred site baths” since ancient times.
What Makes This Spot Special
Mount Osore’s greatest distinctive feature is the “Itako no Kuchiyose” (spirit medium séances) performed here. Itako are female shamans traditional to the Tohoku region who channel the spirits of deceased loved ones and relay their messages to surviving family members. During the Grand Festival (July 20-24) and Autumn Pilgrimage (second week of October during consecutive holidays), Itako are stationed within the grounds and visitors can receive kuchiyose.
The pinwheels standing at Sai no Kawara are also one of Mount Osore’s iconic scenes. Offered to comfort the spirits of children who died young, the colorful pinwheels swaying in the wind create a poignant yet beautiful sight.
Another attraction is that the 500 yen admission fee includes access to the hot spring baths. After walking through the hells, visitors can soothe their tired bodies in the sulfur waters.
Spiritual Benefits and Effects
Known Spiritual Benefits
Memorial Services for the Deceased: Mount Osore’s greatest spiritual benefit. Visitors can pray for the repose of departed souls and comfort their spirits. It serves as an important place for bereaved families to find closure.
Ancestral Veneration: Visitors can pay respects to generations of ancestors and deepen family bonds. Especially during the Obon season, many pilgrims visit.
Protection from Evil and Misfortune: Jizo Bodhisattva is also worshipped as a buddha who protects people from calamities.
Healing from Illness: The hot springs within the grounds have long been considered effective “sacred site baths” for healing both body and mind.
Spiritual Purification: Walking through the desolate hell landscapes is said to help release worldly desires and attachments from one’s heart.
The Unique Energy of This Site
Mount Osore is considered a special place situated at the “boundary between life and death.” Known as the place closest to the afterworld, it is said to have the power to facilitate dialogue with the deceased and prompt reflection on one’s own way of living.
Many people experience a deepening appreciation for “life” precisely by becoming conscious of “death” through walking the hell trail. It is also said that receiving messages from the deceased through Itako kuchiyose gives bereaved families the strength to move forward.
The contrast between the hell areas with their sulfur gas emissions and the peaceful scenery of Paradise Beach symbolizes both suffering and salvation. Experiencing this contrast is said to give people the strength to overcome life’s hardships.
Visitor Testimonials
“I visited wanting to meet my deceased mother. When I heard my mother’s words through the Itako’s kuchiyose, I couldn’t stop crying. ‘Don’t worry, you’re doing well’—these words brought me closure and allowed me to face forward again.” (Woman in her 50s, Tokyo)
“I visited as a tourist but was overwhelmed by the contrast between the desolate hell landscapes and the beauty of Paradise Beach. I deeply felt the preciousness of being alive, and my approach to work changed after returning home.” (Man in his 40s, Miyagi Prefecture)
Best Times to Visit
Spring (May)
Mount Osore is only open from May 1 to October 31. May offers beautiful fresh greenery, with remaining snow sometimes visible. Temperatures are around 10-15°C (50-59°F) and chilly. Fewer tourists allow for peaceful worship. Recommendation: ★★★★☆
Summer (June–August)
June offers the most beautiful fresh greenery. The “Osorezan Grand Festival” is held July 20-24, when Itako kuchiyose is available. Temperatures of 20-25°C (68-77°F) are comfortable. The festival period is extremely crowded. Recommendation: ★★★★★
Autumn (September–October)
Autumn foliage peaks from late September to mid-October. The “Osorezan Autumn Pilgrimage” is held during the second week of October (consecutive holidays). Temperatures are 10-18°C (50-64°F). Late October before closing is less crowded—a hidden gem period. Recommendation: ★★★★★
Winter (November–April)
Closed for the season—worship not possible. Due to heavy snow and cold, the grounds are inaccessible. Recommendation: −
Best Times of Day
Early Morning (6:00-8:00 AM): Just after opening, few visitors allow worship in tranquil silence. The grounds wrapped in morning mist are mystical.
Morning (8:00 AM-Noon): Best time for walking the hell trail and hot spring bathing. Temperatures rise and walking becomes easier.
Afternoon (12:00-4:00 PM): Tour groups increase during this time. Sunlight on Lake Usori creates beautiful scenery.
Late Afternoon (4:00-6:00 PM): Paradise Beach dyed in sunset colors is exceptionally beautiful. Note the closing time (6:00 PM).
Visitor’s Guide
Basic Worship Etiquette
1. Bow at the Main Gate: Bow once before entering Osorezan Bodaiji Temple.
2. Worship at the Main Hall (Jizo-den): Put your hands together before the principal Jizo Bodhisattva. Light incense and pray for the repose of the deceased.
3. Walk the Hell Trail: Complete a circuit of the hells within the grounds. Takes approximately 40 minutes to 1 hour.
4. Memorial Service at Sai no Kawara: Offer pinwheels or flowers to the deceased. You can also stack small stones as an offering.
5. Prayer at Paradise Beach: Contemplate your thoughts for departed loved ones at the Lake Usori shore.
Highlights and Recommended Route
Recommended Order:
1. Pass through the main gate and proceed along the approach
2. Worship at the main hall (Jizo-den)
3. Visit the inner sanctuary and Fudo Myo-o
4. Walk the hell trail (Blood Pond Hell → Mugen Hell → Kanabori Hell, etc.)
5. Memorial service at Sai no Kawara
6. View Lake Usori at Paradise Beach
7. Purify yourself in the hot springs (optional)
8. Purchase souvenirs and charms at the shop
About Itako Kuchiyose:
Available only during Grand Festival (July) and Autumn Pilgrimage (October)
Fee is approximately ¥3,000-5,000 per session (varies by Itako)
Long wait times possible (1-3 hours)
Need to provide the deceased’s name and date of death
Hot Spring Bathing:
Included in admission (no additional fee)
4 bath houses (2 mixed, 1 each for men and women)
Bring your own towel recommended
Shampoo and soap use not permitted
Goshuin Information:
Regular goshuin (¥500)
Reception hours: 6:00 AM-6:00 PM
Available at the temple office next to the main hall
Dress Code and Items to Bring
Comfortable walking shoes essential (gravel paths and rocky terrain)
Mask recommended for those sensitive to the strong sulfur gas smell
Bring a light jacket even in summer (high altitude makes it cool)
Be quiet and respectful at Sai no Kawara
Photography allowed but prohibited during Itako kuchiyose
Basic Information
Mount Osoreの魅力
Access
Address: Ohata-cho, Mutsu City, Aomori Prefecture
By Car:
From Aomori City: Approximately 2 hours 30 minutes (via Route 4 → Route 279)
From central Mutsu City: Approximately 30 minutes
Parking available (free, approximately 300 spaces)
By Bus:
From JR Ominato Line “Shimokita Station”: Shimokita Kotsu bus to “Osorezan,” approximately 40 minutes to terminus
Operating period: May-October (suspended in winter)
Only 4-5 buses daily; check timetable
By Taxi:
From Shimokita Station: Approximately 30 minutes (about ¥5,000 one way)
Visiting Information
Open Period: May 1 – October 31
Hours: 6:00 AM-6:00 PM
Admission: ¥500 (includes hot spring access)
Duration: Approximately 2-3 hours
Phone: 0175-22-3825 (Osorezan Temple Office)
Official Website: None
Area Information
Nearby Attractions
Yagen Onsen (20 min by car)
A hot spring village on the way to Mount Osore. “Kappa-no-yu” is a free open-air bath where you can bathe surrounded by nature along a mountain stream.
Hotokegaura (1 hour by car)
A scenic spot with massive bizarre rock formations. White-green tuff rock continues for about 2km—a nationally designated natural monument. Sightseeing cruises recommended.
Cape Oma (1 hour 30 min by car)
The northernmost point of Honshu. Famous for bluefin tuna, with restaurants serving “Oma Maguro” (tuna) lining the area.
Mutsu Science and Technology Museum (30 min by car)
A science museum with exhibits on nuclear energy and space. Recommended for families with children.
Recommended Restaurants
Mutsu Grand Hotel Restaurant
In Mutsu City, 30 min by car from Mount Osore
Specialties: Shimokita Peninsula seafood, Oma tuna rice bowl (market price)
Hours: 11:30 AM-2:00 PM, 5:30 PM-9:00 PM
Closed: Irregular
Drive-in Hakkoda
On the road to Mount Osore, near Yagen Onsen
Specialties: Osorezan Soba (¥800), Wild Vegetable Set Meal (¥1,200)
Hours: 10:00 AM-4:00 PM
Closed: Irregular
Oomanzoku
Near Cape Oma
Specialties: Oma Tuna Rice Bowl (from ¥2,500), Tuna Sashimi Set (¥2,000)
Hours: 11:00 AM-3:00 PM
Closed: Tuesdays
Minshuku Kaikyo-so
In Oma Town, accommodation available
Specialty: Oma Tuna Full Course (reservation required, from ¥5,000)
A guesthouse run by local fishermen serving fresh seafood
Souvenirs
Mount Osore Charms: Jizo Bodhisattva charms for protection from evil
Mount Osore Hot Spring Bath Salts: Enjoy the sulfur waters at home
Shimokita Peninsula Kelp: Quality kelp from the area
Ika Senbei: Squid crackers, a Mutsu City specialty
Model Itineraries
Day Trip Course (Approximately 8 hours)
8:00 AM Depart from central Mutsu City
8:30 AM Arrive at Mount Osore, begin worship
9:00 AM Main hall worship, hell trail walk
10:30 AM Sai no Kawara, Paradise Beach
11:30 AM Hot spring bathing
12:30 PM Depart Mount Osore
1:00 PM Lunch at Yagen Onsen
2:30 PM Hotokegaura sightseeing (cruise)
5:00 PM Return to Mutsu City
2-Day Course
【Day 1】
10:00 AM Depart from Aomori Station
12:30 PM Lunch in Mutsu City
2:00 PM Arrive at Mount Osore, worship
5:00 PM Stay at Yagen Onsen
【Day 2】
9:00 AM Depart for Cape Oma
10:30 AM Cape Oma sightseeing, Oma tuna lunch
1:00 PM Hotokegaura sightseeing
4:00 PM Return via Mutsu City
Visitor Reviews and Experiences
“Reunion with My Late Father” (Woman in her 60s, Akita Prefecture)
“It took me three years after my father passed to finally visit Mount Osore. During the Grand Festival, I asked an Itako for kuchiyose, and words that were so characteristically my father came through one after another. ‘Don’t worry, you’re doing well.’ I sobbed at those words. On the way home, I realized my heart felt lighter.”
“My View of Life Changed” (Man in his 30s, Kanagawa Prefecture)
“I visited as a casual tourist but was overwhelmed by the gap between the desolate hell scenery and the beauty of Paradise Beach. Seeing the pinwheels at Sai no Kawara made me keenly feel both the fragility and preciousness of life. The sulfur smell bothered me at first, but by the time I left, I had a sense of being ‘purified.’”
“A Place to Quietly Remember the Departed” (Woman in her 40s, Aomori Prefecture)
“I visited on a weekday in September, avoiding the Grand Festival. There were hardly any people, and I could slowly walk around while remembering my late grandmother. The hot spring was practically private, and I was healed in both body and spirit.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make a reservation for Itako kuchiyose?
A: Reservations are not accepted. During the Grand Festival and Autumn Pilgrimage periods, visitors must wait in line at the site. During peak times, waits can reach 2-3 hours.
Q: Can I visit in winter?
A: No. Mount Osore is only open from May 1 to October 31, and is closed during winter.
Q: Is it suitable for children?
A: Worship is possible, but some children may be frightened by the sulfur gas and desolate landscapes. Some parts of the hell trail have unstable footing, so caution is needed with small children.
Q: Is there parking?
A: Free parking for approximately 300 vehicles is available. During the Grand Festival, it gets crowded, so early arrival is recommended.
Q: What do I need to bring for the hot springs?
A: Please bring your own towel. Shampoo and soap cannot be used. Hot spring access is included in the admission fee.
Summary
Mount Osore is a sacred site with over 1,100 years of history as one of Japan’s Three Great Sacred Sites. The desolate “hell” landscapes where sulfur gas rises and the beautiful cobalt blue of Lake Usori create scenery that truly feels like the boundary between this world and the next.
Known for spiritual benefits of memorial services and ancestral veneration, the “Itako no Kuchiyose” performed during the Grand Festival and Autumn Pilgrimage periods provides a special experience for those seeking dialogue with departed loved ones. Many visitors report that becoming conscious of death through walking the hell trail paradoxically deepens their appreciation for life.
The grounds contain four hot springs accessible with just the admission fee, allowing visitors to purify body and mind in the sulfur waters—another major attraction.
While only open from May to October, this power spot in Aomori’s Shimokita Peninsula is well worth combining with regional sightseeing for at least one visit. We recommend it not only for those wishing to commemorate the departed but also for anyone wanting to reflect on their own way of living.
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*Information in this article is current as of December 2025. Please verify the latest details via the official website before visiting.*
