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Zenkō-ji temple

attraction

Attraction

star

4.5 (21029 reviews)

This renowned Buddhist temple founded in the 7th century features picturesque grounds & a museum.

491-イ, Motoyoshichō Nagano, 380-0851, Japan

+81 26-234-3591

Did You Know?
8 facts
642
Ancient Origins

Zenkō-ji Temple was established in 642, making it one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Japan.

39
Temple Lodgings

The temple offers 39 lodgings for visitors who wish to stay overnight and experience the serene atmosphere.

Secret Statue
Hidden Treasure

The central object of veneration, the Ikko Sanzon Amida Nyorai statue, has been hidden from view since 654, even the head priest is not allowed to see it.

7
Revealing Ceremony

Every seven years, a replica statue of the Ikko Sanzon Amida Nyorai is publicly displayed during the Gokaicho ceremony, allowing visitors to witness its grandeur.

Highlights from Reviews

stunning architecture

The temple's architecture is impressive, featuring intricate wooden details and a deeply spiritual ambiance.

serene atmosphere

The grounds are beautifully maintained, providing a serene and peaceful atmosphere for visitors.

shopping street

The approach to the temple is lined with shops and cafes offering local food and souvenirs.

unique experience

The dark corridor offers a unique sensory experience symbolizing a path to enlightenment.

central location

The temple's location makes it a convenient starting point for exploring other attractions in Nagano.

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