The temple houses a massive pair of geta sandals measuring nearly 4 meters high, intended as an offering to the tengu deity Sojo-bo.
The complex is officially protected as a site of historical importance and contains a designated prefecture-level cultural property.
The forest surrounding the temple consists of more than 20,000 cedar trees, some estimated to be over 500 years old.
Saijoji is considered the 'Temple of the Tengu' because local legends claim the winged spirits protected the monk who founded the temple.
The temple layout is designed to encourage a meditative ascent, moving from the lower gates up to the mountaintop shrine.
The architecture reflects the Soto Zen style, which emphasizes simplicity and harmony with the mountain topography.
Daiyuzan Saijoji Temple is a sprawling Soto Zen Buddhist complex located on the slopes of Mount Myojin in Minamiashigara. Established in 1394 by the monk Ryoan Jitsuzen, the grounds feature over 30 buildings connected by stone stairs and surrounded by a dense forest of 500-year-old Japanese cedar trees. The site is famous for its large collection of red tengu (mythical goblin) statues, including one of the largest wooden geta (clog) sandals in Japan. Visitors navigate a steep climb through the forest to reach the Okunoin area at the highest point of the complex. The temple serves as the headquarters of the Soto school for the Kanto region. Unlike many urban temples, the site maintains a heavy emphasis on natural surroundings and woodland preservation.
The vermilion-colored Kekkai-mon gate framed by the surrounding tall cedar trees.
Wear sturdy walking shoes, as the path from the main gate to the inner shrine involves significant stone stairs and uneven forest trails.
Visit the 'Geta Hall' to see the giant ritual sandals before beginning the ascent to the higher temple buildings.
Bring a light jacket, as the altitude and dense forest canopy keep the temperature several degrees cooler than the valley floor.
Do not attempt the hike to the Okunoin without proper footwear, as the moss-covered steps can be slippery.
Maintain silence in prayer halls, remove footwear before entering interior wooden buildings, and do not photograph restricted altar areas.
