Hidden in the heart of Yokohama, Daizen-ji Temple greets you with a vibrant red torii gate and moss-covered stone steps leading to a timeless retreat. This thousand-year-old shrine isn’t just sacred—it’s a living canvas of nature: cherry blossoms bloom like clouds in spring, while fiery maple leaves paint autumn in bold strokes. A walk here feels like dancing slowly with time.

Everything you need to know about Daisenji Temple
Stay at The Yokohama Imperial Hotel, just a 15-minute drive from Daisen-ji Temple, offering a serene blend of Japanese Zen aesthetics and modern luxury. Rooms feature private garden views and include access to exclusive tea ceremony workshops and kimono rental services. Located in the vibrant Minato Mirai district, it provides seamless access to the temple while showcasing Yokohama’s historic streetscapes. The hotel’s tranquil meditation garden is ideal for quiet reflection before visiting the temple, making it a perfect choice for cultural immersion and comfort.
From Daisen-ji Temple, take the Yokohama Municipal Subway Blue Line to "Yokohama Station," then transfer to a bus or walk to destinations like Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse, Yamashita Park, and Yokohama Port—all within a 10-minute drive. Use the Yokohama City Tourist Pass for cost-effective access to multiple sites. Free parking is available near the temple, making it convenient for self-drive visitors. After morning prayers, enjoy a quiet moment at a local Japanese café with matcha desserts, embracing the city’s leisurely rhythm.
Near Daisen-ji Temple, participate in daily morning Zen meditation sessions led by senior monks, including zazen and manuscript copying. The temple hosts a traditional calligraphy workshop open to the public, preserving ancient brush techniques. Each spring, the Daisen-ji Plum Blossom Festival draws crowds as hundreds of plum trees bloom, enhanced by evening illuminations creating a peaceful atmosphere. For deeper insight, join guided tours exploring centuries-old trees and stone carvings, uncovering its significance as a key Edo-period Buddhist center.
Yes, the Kanagawa Prefectural Children's Science Museum is just a 10-minute walk from Daisen-ji Temple, featuring interactive exhibits and nature exploration zones perfect for all ages. Nearby Yamashita Park offers spacious lawns, playgrounds, and scenic waterfront paths ideal for family picnics. The park also houses the Yokohama Aquarium, where families can see whales, octopuses, and other marine life. Additionally, several Japanese tea houses near the temple offer parent-child tea ceremony workshops, allowing families to enjoy cultural learning in a relaxed setting.
Daisen-ji Temple is open daily from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Entry is free, but participation in special meditation sessions or guided tours requires prior HopeGoo and costs ¥300 (~HK$20). Visit early on weekdays before 9:00 AM to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful atmosphere. The temple features an automatic vending machine and prayer book stalls for incense and wishes. Major events such as the Obon Festival and New Year celebrations attract visitors from afar, offering immersive cultural experiences during these periods.
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