Godaidō: A Serene Journey into Spiritual Tranquility
Explore the serene beauty of Godaidō, a historic Buddhist temple in the Yamadera mountains, blending spirituality with breathtaking landscapes.
Nestled in the scenic Yamadera mountains, Godaidō is a captivating Buddhist temple that offers visitors a peaceful retreat into Japanese spirituality. With its stunning architecture and breathtaking views, it's a must-visit for tourists seeking cultural immersion and natural beauty.
A brief summary to Godaidō, Rissyakuji
- 4456-1 Yamadera, Yamagata, Yamadera, Yamagata, 999-3301, JP
- +8123-695-2843
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to enjoy a peaceful atmosphere and avoid crowds.
- Wear comfortable shoes for the hike up the stone steps leading to the temple.
- Take your time to explore the surrounding trails for stunning views of the mountains.
- Consider bringing a camera to capture the breathtaking scenery and architecture.
- Respect the local customs and maintain a quiet demeanor while inside the temple.
Getting There
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Car
If you're traveling by car, start by navigating to Yamagata city. From Yamagata city center, take Route 48 heading northeast. Follow Route 48 for approximately 30 minutes until you see signs for Yamadera. Turn right onto the road leading to Yamadera and follow the signs directing you to Godaido, Rissyakuji. There is parking available near the temple, but be aware that parking fees may apply, typically around 500 yen for a few hours.
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Train
For those using public transportation, take the JR Yamagata Line from any station in the region towards Yamagata Station. If you're starting from Sendai, the journey takes about 1 hour. Once you arrive at Yamagata Station, transfer to the Yamako Bus service towards Yamadera. The bus ride takes about 30 minutes. Get off at the Yamadera stop, and from there, it's a short walk to Godaido. The bus fare is approximately 500 yen.
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Walking
If you prefer to walk from the Yamadera bus stop, exit the bus and follow the signs to Yamadera Temple. The path is well-marked, and you will enjoy a scenic route that takes about 20 minutes of walking. The path is slightly uphill, so wear comfortable shoes.
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