Visiting Ryomazan Yoshitsune Temple
In Minmaya, Sotogahama Town, Aomori Prefecture, a local legend tells that Minamoto no Yoshitsune did not die in Hiraizumi as history claims. Instead, he secretly fled north and crossed the Tsugaru Strait from this area to reach Hokkaido.
The famed Japanese author Osamu Dazai also visited this temple while writing his novel Tsugaru. From the temple grounds, you’re greeted with a sparkling ocean view. While you can climb a steep set of stairs from the main road, driving up to the parking lot is highly recommended—those stairs are no joke!
From here, you can take in sweeping views of Minmaya town and the Tsugaru Strait, reflecting on Yoshitsune’s legendary journey and Dazai’s literary footprints.
Ryomazan Yoshitsune Temple
From the temple grounds, the expansive view of the Tsugaru Strait seems like something Yoshitsune himself may have once seen.
Dazai Osamu described this very place in Tsugaru, and the air remains quiet, beautiful, and mysteriously sacred.
Next to the main hall, you’ll find the “Yoshitsune’s Sitting Stone,” a spot believed to have been used by the warrior before setting out to Hokkaido.
For history lovers and literary enthusiasts, this site is a must-visit.
Please note: While the view from the stair route is breathtaking, it’s also quite steep—those with mobility concerns should opt for the parking area route. On clear days, you might even catch a glimpse of Hokkaido on the horizon… perhaps just as Yoshitsune once did.