Seven kilometres west of Tsuruoka is this Zen Buddhist temple, complete with five-tier pagoda and large gateway. It dates from the 10th century, when it was dedicated to the Dragon King, guardian of the seas. Near the temple is a more contemporary attraction: the famous jinmen-gyo (human-faced carp). When viewed from above, these curious fish actually do appear to have human faces. From the station take a bus bound for Yunohama Onsen to the 欽梗紳梯身-轍勳 stop (?580, 30 minutes).
Lonely Planet's must-see attractions
12.48 MILES
The 2446 stone steps through ancient cedars to Haguro-san's summit (419m) have been smoothed by centuries of pilgrims. The climb, taking up to two hours,＃
20.93 MILES
Accessible from July to September, Gas-san (1984m) is the highest of Dewa Sanzan's sacred mountains. From Hachig身me (匐磁醴; eighth station) the route passes＃
20.42 MILES
Accessible from May to October, Yudono-san (1504m) is the spiritual culmination of the Dewa Sanzan trek. Coming from Gas-san it's a short walk from the＃
2.41 MILES
The world's largest jellyfish tank 每 containing 30 to 40 species at any one time 每 was given a spark by a Nobel Prize每winning scientist who discovered a＃
19.83 MILES
Beyond the giant red torii of this shrine, ancient tradition (and stern-faced priests) forbids disclosure of what you witness. It's forbidden to＃
4.25 MILES
Founded in 1950 by the former Lord Sh身nai in order to preserve local culture, this museum features Sakai-family artefacts, two Meiji-era buildings, a＃
20.86 MILES
At the peak of Gas-san is the deeply spiritual Shint身 shrine of Gassan-jinja. Before entering you must be 'purifed': bow to receive the priest's＃
Historical Obata ('NK Agent') Building
10.62 MILES
This building featured in the 2009 Academy Award每winning Best Foreign Language film, Okuribito (云仁曰太午; Departures). You can't go in, but you'll see stills＃
Nearby Northern Honsh迂 (T身hoku) attractions
2.41 MILES
The world's largest jellyfish tank 每 containing 30 to 40 species at any one time 每 was given a spark by a Nobel Prize每winning scientist who discovered a＃
4.25 MILES
Founded in 1950 by the former Lord Sh身nai in order to preserve local culture, this museum features Sakai-family artefacts, two Meiji-era buildings, a＃
3. Historical Abumiya Residence
10.52 MILES
Opposite the city hall, this private home once belonged to a wealthy shipping agent. With a beautiful garden and a fascinating variety of room divisions＃
4. Historical Obata ('NK Agent') Building
10.62 MILES
This building featured in the 2009 Academy Award每winning Best Foreign Language film, Okuribito (云仁曰太午; Departures). You can't go in, but you'll see stills＃
10.63 MILES
This sprawling hilly park has views of the ocean and is a wonderful spot for a stroll or a picnic, especially at sunset. In April, 400 cherry trees burst＃
12.48 MILES
The 2446 stone steps through ancient cedars to Haguro-san's summit (419m) have been smoothed by centuries of pilgrims. The climb, taking up to two hours,＃
19.83 MILES
Beyond the giant red torii of this shrine, ancient tradition (and stern-faced priests) forbids disclosure of what you witness. It's forbidden to＃
20.42 MILES
Accessible from May to October, Yudono-san (1504m) is the spiritual culmination of the Dewa Sanzan trek. Coming from Gas-san it's a short walk from the＃