Zenkō-ji
善光寺
An ancient, non-sectarian temple founded about 1,400 years ago. Its National Treasure main hall is one of Japan's largest wooden structures, and Nagano grew up around the temple.
Zenkō-ji was founded in the 7th century and enshrines what is said to be Japan's oldest Buddhist image, the Ikkō Sanzon Amida Nyorai, which is a secret icon never shown to the public. Anyone may worship here regardless of sect or gender, and there is a long-standing saying that everyone should visit Zenkō-ji at least once in their life. The National Treasure main hall was built in 1707. You can visit the inner sanctum and walk the Kaidan-meguri, a route through pitch-black underground corridors where you feel your way along and touch the 'Key to Paradise.' The Niō Gate, the Sanmon Gate (you can climb up into it), the Kyōzō sutra repository, the three-story pagoda, and the Omotesandō with its Nakamise shopping street together form a complete temple town. The dawn 'Asaji' service held every morning, and the chance to receive a gosuzu chōdai (a blessing with the Buddhist rosary), are worth waking up early for. Entry to the grounds is free. A combined pass for the inner sanctum, the Kaidan-meguri, the Sanmon, and the historical museum costs about 1,200 yen. It is about a 25-minute walk or a 10-minute bus ride from Nagano Station.
Opening hours
Grounds open all day; inner sanctuary about 05:30–16:30 (seasonal changes)
Nearby sights
- Nagano Prefectural Art Museum
- Kawanakajima Battlefield (Hachimanbara Park)
- Matsushiro Castle & Sanada Treasure Museum
- Matsushiro Underground Imperial Headquarters
- Togakushi Shrine
- Obuse & Hokusai-kan
- Kagami-ike Pond
- Gansho-in Temple