Zen Rin Gai is a unique temple district in Japan, with 33 temples, principally Chosho-ji Temple at its center and temples lined up along the lush green approach to the temple. This historical temple district in Hirosaki City began in 1610 when the second lord of the Hirosaki domain, Tsugaru Nobuhira, gathered all the Soto Zen temples in the Tsugaru region in one place as a defense base for Hirosaki Castle. This area is a quiet space where the spirit of Zen can be felt, and it is famous with many visitors and tourists.

One of Zen Rin Gai’s most striking features is Sazae-do, a unique architectural marvel. Its name, ‘spiral shell hall,’ derives from its interior structure resembling a spiral shell. This distinctive feature is a must-see for architecture enthusiasts.
The hall’s double-helix structure is such that one finds oneself at the top while walking from the entrance and then descends without changing direction to reach a different exit from that of the entrance. The hall houses many Buddha statues, including the Kannon Bosatsu and the Thirty-Three Kannon, and touring the hall is said to bring the same benefits as making a pilgrimage.

The hall also has high historical value as a place with a layout based on feng shui and the history of the Hirosaki clan. The surrounding area is rich in nature, and visitors can enjoy the scenery of the four seasons.