Dainichibo Temple — Attraction in Tsuruoka

We missed the bus from S-mall in Tsuruoka so we got a taxi instead to take us to the temple. We arrived before they were open so we were able to enjoy the view of the rice fields and the gate. Once we they were open we paid to go in and did the prayer. From there he took us to see the sokushinbutsu. We felt a bit rushed there, he handed us the flyer they wrote up in English and didn’t have time to read it. Then he had us scan a YouTube link, which we watched. And then there was another QR Code but it didn’t work so he rushed us out. We would have liked more time to look at the sokushinbutsu and the artifacts around. We were able to get the omamori made of the previous clothes that he had worn (¥1000). Afterwards it’s a hall of all the different deities, which was amazing to see. We got our goshuin stamp and then walked our way down the mountain. There are only two buses that come to that area. I highly recommend a personal car if you are looking...

We found the temple despite limited signage . We were the only visitors. We were met by a monk who indicated to us to kneel on the tatami mats in the temple. He gave us English translations about the mummified monk to read then proceeded to speak at some length which I could not translate then did some drumming and finally waved a large pole with streamers over our heads . After this another older monk took over and showed us out the back where the mummified monk was behind glass in a large case . We sat in front of a mini shopfront in front of the glass case and the older monk spoke for some time indicating we could buy amulets and other items in front . We couldn’t understand much of what was happening or expected . It would have been better to have a guide to explain in English what the monks were saying . We were ushered out via a corridor of small Buddhas to the door . Somewhat...

Going to the country side and seeing the mummified priests was both interesting and left me with a feeling of serenity. Furthermore, everyone I meet was friendly and tried their best to explain the meaning of the sacred mountain both in English and in Japanese. Getting there was easy as well with buses going from Tsuruoka and other smaller cities. Moreover, walking from the bus station took only around 10-15 minutes, and with vending machines all over I didn't have to be afraid of dehydration. Going back to Tsuruoka, however, was more troublesome with no buses going at all (even though the tourist centre said so), upon I had to get a cab. So the place is worth a visit due to how esoteric it is but please make sure to arrange means of...