Zenkoji Temple: A Millennia-Old Buddhist Temple in Nagano

Zenkoji Temple in Nagano City is one of the oldest and most important Buddhist temples in Japan. It is said that the history of Zenkoji dates back to 642 AD when it was founded by Yoshimitsu Honda. The temple enshrines a statue known as 'Ikko Sanzon Amida Nyorai,' which is believed to be one of the earliest Buddha statues in Japan. Over the centuries, Zenkoji has been rebuilt and renovated multiple times, becoming a center of faith and culture that attracts countless devotees and tourists. The architectural style of Zenkoji is unique, incorporating various elements. The main hall (hondo) is one of the largest wooden structures in Japan, grand and magnificently decorated. The temple complex also includes many other significant buildings such as the Sanmon Gate, Kyozo (scripture repository), and the bell tower, each showcasing exquisite craftsmanship and design. The temple gardens are another highlight, offering beautiful scenery that changes with the seasons. The approach to Zenkoji is lined with traditional shops and restaurants, creating a rich historical atmosphere. Here, you can find stores selling local specialties and souvenirs such as Shinshu miso, shichimi togarashi (seven-flavor chili pepper), and handcrafted items. Visitors can also enjoy local delicacies like soba noodles (Shinshu soba) and grilled rice dumplings (dango). There are also tea houses along the approach offering traditional Japanese sweets, making it a great place to rest and relax. 📍 Address: 491 Motoyoshi-cho, Nagano City, Nagano Prefecture. It is about a 10-minute bus ride from Nagano Station, making it very accessible.