宝袋寺, Buddhist temple in Midori-ku, Japan
The temple sits atop Mount Osorezan and contains a main hall with supporting structures set across volcanic grounds featuring hot springs and geothermal activity. The mountain rises above Lake Usori, a crater lake with distinctive turquoise waters fed by sulfur-rich springs beneath the surface.
A Buddhist monk named Ennin founded this location in the 9th century after his travels to various sacred sites across Japan. The mountain became revered as a holy place and drew pilgrims for generations.
The temple serves as a site for annual ceremonies held in late July, where Itako mediums perform rituals to connect with departed spirits. These practices draw visitors interested in traditional spiritual experiences and local religious customs.
The site is best accessed from Shimokita Station, with regular bus services operating to reach the mountain. Travel time from the station to the temple area takes roughly 45 minutes, though service frequency varies depending on the season.
The grounds contain a site called Sanzu no Kawa where visitors stack small stones in quiet piles, a gesture believed to help children's souls in their journey. This meditative practice creates pockets of remembrance throughout the mountain.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
