[Aomori, Saisho-in Temple Five-story Pagoda] Visit the most beautiful five-story pagoda in Tohoku

What is the Saishoin Five-Story Pagoda?

The Saishoin Five-Story Pagoda (Saishōin Gojū-no-tō) is a historic structure in Hirosaki City, Aomori Prefecture, celebrated as the most beautiful five-story pagoda in the Tōhoku region.

Completed in the Edo period in 1667, it is one of Aomori Prefecture’s representative five-story pagodas and is designated as a Important Cultural Property of Japan.

The pagoda was built by the Tsugaru Domain and served as a memorial tower connected to the Sengoku (Warring States) period.

This site, where Japanese traditional architectural beauty blends with Tsugaru history, offers visitors a tranquil and solemn atmosphere.

Along with seasonal scenery, you can fully enjoy the historical and architectural charms of the Saishoin Five-Story Pagoda. Below is detailed information on highlights and access.

Highlights of the Saishoin Five-Story Pagoda

1. A five-story pagoda famed as the most beautiful in Tōhoku

The Saishoin pagoda is notable in Aomori Prefecture for its architectural style that blends Wayō and Karayō techniques (traditional Japanese and Chinese-influenced methods), featuring a beautiful balance and intricate decorative details.

Features of the five-story pagoda

• Approximately 31 meters tall: one of the tallest five-story pagodas in the Tōhoku region
• Wooden construction built without using any nails
• Graceful roof curves and a solemn presence

At the very top of the pagoda is a decorative finial called the sorin, whose upward-reaching form leaves a powerful impression on viewers.

Against a blue sky, the five-story pagoda is truly a photogenic spectacle.

2. Spring — contrast between cherry blossoms and the pagoda

In spring, the grounds of Saishoin are enveloped in cherry blossoms.

The contrast between the pagoda and the cherry blossoms is stunning, making it an ideal spot for photography.

From late April to early May, when Hirosaki Park’s cherry trees reach full bloom, the area around Saishoin also spreads out into a beautiful tunnel of cherry blossoms.

The temple’s peaceful atmosphere and the blossoms’ brilliance harmonize perfectly, offering a quintessentially Japanese scene.

3. Autumn — vivid foliage and the pagoda

In autumn, the grounds are painted in reds and yellows, creating a striking contrast with the pagoda.

The foliage framing the pagoda is like a painted work of art.

During the autumn leaves season (mid-October to early November), more visitors come, and you can enjoy the solemn temple atmosphere combined with colorful autumn scenery.

4. Winter — snowy landscape and the pagoda

In winter, the pagoda is covered in silvery snow, producing a magical landscape.

In particular, the snow-covered roofs and the crisp winter air unique to Aomori create a quiet, contemplative atmosphere that highlights the beauty of Japanese winter.

If you visit in winter, be sure to dress warmly and take care on snowy paths while enjoying the site.

How to enjoy Saishoin Five-Story Pagoda

1. Stroll the peaceful temple grounds

Although Saishoin is located near the center of Hirosaki City, it sits in a quiet area away from tourist crowds.

In addition to the pagoda, the grounds include Buddhist statues and temple halls, where you can feel the atmosphere of a traditional Japanese temple.

2. Visit the best photo spots

The Saishoin pagoda is a beautiful photography spot in any season.

Recommended shooting points are the following three:

• Front shot of the pagoda (symmetrical beauty stands out)
• Compositions framing cherry blossoms or autumn leaves (conveys seasonal atmosphere)
• Distant views from a little farther away (shows the whole pagoda)

3. Combine with nearby attractions

When you visit the Saishoin pagoda, it’s recommended to also see nearby sightseeing spots.

• Hirosaki Park (Hirosaki Castle): about a 10-minute walk. Famous for cherry blossoms and autumn leaves
• Fujita Memorial Garden: about a 15-minute walk. A beautiful Japanese garden
• Tsugaru Clan Neputa Village: about a 10-minute walk. Experience Aomori’s traditional Neputa festival

Practical information for travelers

Access

By train & bus

• About 15 minutes by bus from JR Hirosaki Station (get off at "Honchō", then a 5-minute walk)
• About 40 minutes by train from Shin-Aomori Station to Hirosaki Station

By car

• About 50 minutes by car from Aomori Airport
• About 10 minutes by car from central Hirosaki (parking available)

Admission & opening hours

• Admission: Free
• Visiting hours: Around 9:00–16:30 (may vary by season)

Wi‑Fi

• Many cafes and tourist information centers in Hirosaki City offer free Wi‑Fi
• There are also many spots offering Wi‑Fi around JR Hirosaki Station

Language support

• English and Chinese tourist pamphlets available (Hirosaki Tourist Information Center)
• Some signs around the temple include English translations



Summary and Frequently Asked Questions

The Saishoin Five-Story Pagoda is known as the most beautiful five-story pagoda in Aomori Prefecture and is a site of high historical value.

You can enjoy its seasonal expressions—cherry blossoms, autumn leaves, and snowy landscapes—and appreciate the beauty of traditional Japanese temple architecture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: When was the Saishoin Five-Story Pagoda built?

A: It was completed in 1667 (Edo period) and is now designated as an Important Cultural Property.

Q: Can you enter the interior of the pagoda?

A: Generally, the interior is not open to the public, but you can closely admire the exterior.

Q: What is the best season to visit?

A: Spring (cherry blossoms), autumn (fall foliage), and winter (snowy scenery) are especially recommended.

If you visit Hirosaki, be sure to experience the history and beauty of the Saishoin Five-Story Pagoda!