Kokuseki-ji Temple: A Serene Buddhist Sanctuary
Discover the tranquility and cultural richness of Kokuseki-ji Temple, a serene Buddhist sanctuary nestled in the heart of Oshu, Iwate.
Kokuseki-ji Temple in Oshu, Iwate, stands as a beautiful example of Japanese Buddhist architecture and spirituality. Surrounded by lush greenery, this tranquil temple invites visitors to explore its serene gardens, majestic structures, and rich history, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking peace and cultural insight.
A brief summary to Kokuseki-ji Temple
- Yamauchi-17 Mizusawaku Kuroishicho, Oshu, Yamauchi Mizusawaku Kuroishicho, Iwate, 023-0101, JP
- +81197-26-4168
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-4 pm
- Thursday 9 am-4 pm
- Friday 9 am-4 pm
- Saturday 9 am-4 pm
- Sunday 9 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Visit during weekdays to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
- Consider participating in a meditation session offered at the temple for a deeper connection.
- Take your time exploring the gardens; they are perfect for photography and quiet reflection.
- Respect temple etiquette by dressing modestly and maintaining a quiet demeanor.
- Check for any seasonal events or festivals that may enhance your visit.
Getting There
-
Car
If you are driving to Kokuseki-ji Temple, start from the center of Etchu. Get on National Route 4 (国道4号) heading northeast. Continue for about 10 kilometers until you reach the junction for Route 398 (県道398号). Take the exit for Route 398 and follow the signs towards Mizusawa. After approximately 5 kilometers, you will see signs for Kokuseki-ji Temple. Turn left onto Yamauchi street, and the temple will be on your right. Parking is available nearby.
-
Public Transportation - Train
To reach Kokuseki-ji Temple via public transportation, start by taking a train from Etchu Station (越中駅). Board the JR Tohoku Line heading towards Mizusawa-Esashi Station (水沢江刺駅). The train ride takes about 30 minutes. Once you arrive at Mizusawa-Esashi Station, exit the station and look for the bus stop outside. Take a local bus towards Kuroishi (黒石) and get off at the Kokuseki-ji Temple stop. The temple is a short walk from the bus stop.
-
Public Transportation - Bus
If you prefer to take a bus directly from Etchu, go to the Etchu Bus Terminal. Look for the bus heading to Mizusawa or Kuroishi. The journey should take about 40 minutes. Make sure to inform the bus driver of your destination (Kokuseki-ji Temple) when you board. Get off at the Kokuseki-ji Temple stop, and the temple will be just a few meters away from the bus stop.
Discover more about Kokuseki-ji Temple
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Reconstruction Memorial Park of the Great East Japan Earthquake
79.0 km
Explore the Reconstruction Memorial Park, a poignant tribute to resilience and recovery from the Great East Japan Earthquake, and immerse yourself in the stories of hope.
Ise-jima Island
82.5 km
Discover Ise-jima Island: Japan's spiritual heartland, stunning coastline, and the birthplace of cultured pearls.
Sendai Station
95.9 km
Discover the vibrant Sendai Station, your gateway to Miyagi's rich culture, local treats, and stunning landscapes in Japan.
Tohoku University Katahira Campus
96.8 km
Experience the beauty and history of Tohoku University Katahira Campus, a top educational destination in Sendai, Japan, rich in culture and stunning architecture.
Tohoku University Kawauchi Campus
96.8 km
Explore the serene beauty and academic heritage of Tohoku University Kawauchi Campus in Sendai, a perfect blend of nature and education.
Unmissable attractions to see
Mizusawa Park
8.1 km
Experience the natural beauty and cultural richness of Mizusawa Park in Oshu, Iwate—an ideal retreat for relaxation and exploration.
Oshu Space and Astronomy Museum
8.5 km
Explore the universe at the Oshu Space and Astronomy Museum, a premier science museum in Iwate, Japan, perfect for all ages.
Esashi Fujiwara Heritage Park
12.6 km
Explore the breathtaking Esashi Fujiwara Heritage Park, a serene blend of nature and history in Oshu, Japan, perfect for cultural immersion and relaxation.
Chuson-ji
13.0 km
Discover a serene UNESCO World Heritage Site in Hiraizumi, featuring the dazzling Konjikido Golden Hall and exquisite Buddhist art.
Hanamaki Sports Land
31.7 km
Experience outdoor adventures year-round at Hanamaki Sports Land: rafting, canoeing, snowmobiling, and more on the Kitakami River!
Hanamaki Toy Museum
34.4 km
Discover a world of nostalgia and fun at the Hanamaki Toy Museum, where traditional and international toys come to life for all ages!
Tsuzukiishi
35.1 km
Marvel at the mysterious Tsuzukiishi rock formation in Tono, Iwate: where nature's artistry meets ancient legends and folklore.
Rias Ark Museum
37.3 km
Discover art, local history, and moving tsunami remembrance at Kesennuma's Rias Ark Museum.
Denshoen
43.6 km
Experience the cultural heritage of Tōno City at Denshoen, a local history museum showcasing the art and traditions of Iwate Prefecture.
Rōkandō Cave
44.8 km
Discover the mystical Rōkandō Cave in Iwate: an adventure through stunning rock formations and Japan's largest underground waterfall.
Sanriku Fukko National Park
47.0 km
Discover Japan's resilient Sanriku coast: dramatic cliffs, scenic trails, and vibrant culture in a national park reborn from the 2011 tsunami.
Goishi Beach
47.1 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of Goishi Beach, a stunning coastal gem in Japan offering relaxation, adventure, and breathtaking sunsets.
Oyasukyo
47.6 km
Explore Oyasukyo: A Scenic Gem in Yuzawa, Akita, Offering Majestic Views and Nature Adventures for Every Traveler.
Kamakura Museum
60.8 km
Experience Yokote's 450-year-old Kamakura tradition year-round! Explore snow houses, culture, and local specialties in this Akita gem.
Morioka Machiya-Story Museum
67.6 km
Discover Morioka's history and culture at the Machiya-Story Museum, a preserved sake brewery with traditional architecture and local crafts.
Essential places to dine
Hittsumi-tei
60.2 km
Discover authentic Japanese soba noodles at Hittsumi-tei in Morioka – a true taste of regional cuisine awaits!
NAGASHI SOMEN
68.5 km
Discover the unique taste of Nagashi Somen – flowing noodles and crispy tempura await you in Misato's charming setting.
Shonaikan
77.9 km
Experience the best of traditional Japanese sushi at Shonaikan in Mogami - where quality meets authenticity.
Restaurant Kokage
94.2 km
Experience authentic udon noodles and local flavors at Restaurant Kokage in Hachimantai - a must-visit culinary destination.
NAN TANDOORI
94.8 km
Experience authentic Indian cuisine at NAN TANDOORI in Sendai - a halal restaurant offering flavorful dishes in a warm ambiance.
Syokudo and Teishoku restaurant
95.0 km
Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Syokudo and Teishoku Restaurant in Sendai - where tradition meets flavor.
スパイシーカレーHalal Hub
95.2 km
Savor authentic Bangladeshi and Indian cuisine at Spicy Curry Halal Hub in Sendai - where every dish tells a story.
Koimari
95.3 km
Discover Koimari: A Culinary Gem in Sendai Blending Japanese and Western Flavors for an Unforgettable Dining Experience.
Date no Gyutan
95.3 km
Experience the authentic taste of Sendai at Date no Gyutan - a must-visit tongue restaurant serving exquisite meat dishes.
Route 227s' cafe TOHOKU
95.5 km
Experience authentic Japanese flavors in a cozy setting at Route 227's Cafe TOHOKU in Sendai.
SAKE Zen Hatago (Japanese Sake Tasting Bar)
95.6 km
Discover authentic Japanese culture at SAKE Zen Hatago - your gateway to exquisite sake tasting in Sendai.
Rigoletto Tapas Lounge
95.6 km
Discover Rigoletto Tapas Lounge in Sendai - where Italian flair meets Spanish zest for an unforgettable dining experience.
Itsutsubashi Yokocho
96.3 km
Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Itsutsubashi Yokocho in Sendai - a delightful izakaya offering delicious dishes and a vibrant atmosphere.
Kawauchi no Mori Dining
96.6 km
Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Kawauchi no Mori Dining in Sendai - a must-visit for food lovers seeking local flavors.
Kitchen Terrace Couleur
96.7 km
Experience authentic Japanese dining at Kitchen Terrace Couleur in Sendai - where tradition meets flavor in every dish.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Hiraizumi Rest House
12.7 km
Explore the flavors and culture of Hiraizumi at the Hiraizumi Rest House, a must-visit destination for tourists seeking an authentic Japanese experience.
Marukan Building
34.4 km
Explore the Marukan Building in Hanamaki for a delightful shopping experience filled with local and international treasures.
Matsushima Shopping Center
80.2 km
Discover authentic souvenirs and local crafts at Matsushima Shopping Center, a cultural gem in Japan’s scenic Matsushima area.
Marine Gate Shiogama
86.4 km
Explore the vibrant Marine Gate Shiogama for fresh seafood, unique souvenirs, and stunning coastal views in Miyagi, Japan.
Izumi Park Town Tapio
88.5 km
Explore Izumi Park Town Tapio: A vibrant shopping mall in Sendai, Miyagi, offering diverse shopping, dining, and entertainment experiences for tourists.
Sendai Izumi PREMIUM OUTLETS
88.6 km
Shop till you drop at Sendai Izumi PREMIUM OUTLETS, featuring over 100 brands and unbeatable discounts in beautiful Sendai, Japan.
Mitsui Outlet Park Sendai Port
91.9 km
Mitsui Outlet Park Sendai Port: A Shopping Paradise with Tax-Free Deals and Scenic Views in Sendai, Japan.
Rakuten Eagles Team Shop
95.6 km
Explore the Rakuten Eagles Team Shop in Sendai for official merchandise and a true taste of Japanese baseball culture.
AER
95.7 km
Experience the vibrant shopping and breathtaking views of Sendai at AER, the city's iconic shopping mall and landmark.
S-PAL II
95.7 km
Explore S-PAL II, Sendai's premier shopping mall, where fashion, food, and culture come together for an unforgettable experience.
Pokémon Center Tohoku
95.7 km
Discover a world of Pokémon at the Pokémon Center Tohoku, where fans can shop for unique merchandise and enjoy fun events in Sendai.
PARCO Sendai
95.7 km
Explore PARCO Sendai for an unmatched shopping experience featuring global brands, delicious cuisine, and local culture in the heart of Miyagi.
Tohoku Standard Market
95.7 km
Explore the rich culture and unique crafts of Tohoku at Sendai's Tohoku Standard Market, the ultimate souvenir destination for travelers.
Tokyu Hands Sendai
95.9 km
Explore the vibrant world of Tokyu Hands Sendai, where creativity meets practicality in a unique shopping experience filled with local treasures.
S-PAL Sendai Main Building
96.0 km
Experience the best of shopping and dining at S-PAL Sendai Main Building, a vibrant hub in the heart of Sendai offering diverse retail and culinary delights.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Sake Gining Mondo
18.1 km
Discover the essence of Japanese culture at Sake Gining Mondo, where authentic sake and local cuisine come together in a cozy izakaya setting.
Black Tide Brewing
37.5 km
Explore the rich flavors of locally crafted beers at Black Tide Brewing in Kesennuma, a must-visit destination for beer enthusiasts.
Baeren Brewery
70.2 km
Experience the rich brewing traditions of Japan at Baeren Brewery in Morioka, where exceptional craft beers and a vibrant atmosphere await.
Cafe & Inn That Sounds Good!
86.2 km
Immerse yourself in the charm of Semboku at Cafe & Inn That Sounds Good!, where comfort meets local culture and delightful flavors await.
カフェ&ワインショップ シンクロ
94.5 km
Discover the essence of Miyagi's wine culture at Café & Wine Shop Synchro, where cozy ambiance meets an exquisite selection of wines.
osteria humming bird
95.7 km
Discover the authentic flavors of Italy at Osteria Humming Bird, a charming restaurant and wine bar in the heart of Sendai.
ガールズバー HARU HARU【ハルハル】
95.8 km
Discover the lively nightlife at HARU HARU, a premier girl bar in Sendai, offering friendly service and a vibrant atmosphere for an unforgettable experience.
Bar Ribbon in the sky
95.9 km
Experience breathtaking views and vibrant nightlife at Bar Ribbon in the Sky, Sendai’s premier rooftop bar offering exquisite cocktails and a lively atmosphere.
PUB THE SWAN
95.9 km
Discover the vibrant Irish pub experience at Pub The Swan in Sendai, offering a cozy atmosphere and a delicious menu to delight every visitor.
CRAFTSMAN Sendai
95.9 km
Discover CRAFTSMAN Sendai, where delicious cuisine meets a vibrant bar atmosphere, perfect for food lovers and craft beer enthusiasts alike!
Nakaguro
96.0 km
Experience authentic izakaya culture at Nakaguro in Sendai, where delicious food and a lively atmosphere await.
Jacob's Ladder
96.0 km
Discover the enchanting Jacob's Ladder in Sendai, where cocktail artistry meets a cozy nightlife experience in the heart of Japan's vibrant city.
Lobby Lounge Chaleur
96.0 km
Discover the serene ambiance and delightful beverages at Lobby Lounge Chaleur, a hidden gem in Sendai's vibrant café culture.
18キッド
96.1 km
Experience the authentic taste of Japan at 18キッド, a traditional izakaya in Sendai serving delicious small plates and a lively atmosphere.
BATSUJI BREWING
96.2 km
Discover the heart of Sendai's brewing culture at Batsuji Brewing, showcasing exquisite craft beers and a vibrant atmosphere.