Renge-ji

Renge-ji is a Buddhist temple in Aomori featuring traditional wooden architecture with sliding doors that frame views of a manicured garden and stone sculptures. The compound surrounds a quiet outdoor area displaying ancient stone Buddha statues under open sky, arranged throughout the grounds.

The temple was founded in 1057 and underwent major rebuilding in 1641 when five stone statues of wisdom Buddhas were installed. This restoration shaped the site's current form and gave it its distinctive stone artwork.

The temple hosts monthly fire rituals performed by priests and a special vegetable-blessing ceremony in July where visitors seek healing from illnesses. These practices show how the place continues to serve people's personal spiritual needs today.

The temple is easy to visit with walkways leading around the garden areas and statues, allowing visitors to explore all parts. It is best to visit during daylight hours so you can properly see the details of the wooden architecture and stone sculptures.

The stone Buddha statues are displayed openly in nature rather than protected indoors, which is unusual for the region. This choice lets visitors encounter these ancient artworks directly and without barriers.