Dairyuji Temple

Dairyuji Temple is a working Soto Zen Buddhist temple on the Oga Peninsula in northern Akita, open to visitors daily and hosting structured weekend mindfulness retreats for up to eight people at a time. The temple has been in continuous operation since the 16th century and is run by the 38th head priest, Keno Miura, and his American wife Gretchen, a certified mindfulness meditation teacher. Retreats run Friday evening to Sunday morning and have been featured in Conde Nast Traveller.

The temple grounds cover 43,000 sqm and include the historic Rakusuitei water garden, a natural spring, and Japan's only bell tower that doubles as a pagoda. Seasonal beauty drives visits year-round. Azaleas in spring, hydrangeas and water lilies in early summer, fall foliage, and snow landscapes in winter. Views from the bell tower take in both the Sea of Japan and the Ou mountain range.

The retreat schedule is structured but not rigid. Morning zazen runs at 6:30am, followed by guided temple tours, garden meditation, a mandala art workshop, an optional local onsen visit, and an evening taiko drum session. Five meals are included, with a Western-style buffet breakfast and Japanese lunches and dinners from local restaurants. Dietary options are not confirmed but can be discussed with the hosts at registration. Tea, coffee, and snacks are available throughout in the tea room.

This is not a coworking or remote-work setup. There is no dedicated workspace and no information on wifi availability in rooms. The retreat is suited to nomads wanting a genuine digital detox or a contemplative pause between work stints. Outside of retreat weekends, the temple is open daily for visitors. Longer stays or custom programs can be arranged directly with the hosts.