Trip Planner: Asia / Japan / Chubu / Koshinetsu / Nagano Prefecture / Nagano / Zenko-ji Temple

Zenko-ji Temple, Nagano

4.5

#1 of 144 in Things to do in Nagano

Must see · Religious Site · Tourist Spot

One of the last remaining Buddhist pilgrimage sites in Japan, Zenko-ji Temple draws worshippers seeking enlightenment from all over the country. Originally built in the 7th century, the temple compound stood before Japanese Buddhism was divided into sects, so priests of two different Buddhist schools share management of the shrine. The complex contains several gardens and buildings, including prayer rooms and a nunnery. The main temple holds a hidden Buddha statue that even the chief priest isn't allowed to view. Walk the pitch-black corridor under the temple to find and touch the hanging key of enlightenment. Using our online itinerary creator, Nagano attractions like Zenko-ji Temple can form part of a personalized travel itinerary.

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Tours to Zenko-ji Temple

FROM $166 BOOK WITH VIATOR Full-Day Tour of Snow Monkeys, Zenko-ji Temple and Sake in Nagano

5.0

Duration: 8 hours

Tours from $166 »

FROM $389 BOOK WITH VIATOR Nagano Private Two Day Tour

5.0

Duration: 2 days

Tours from $389 »

FROM $216 BOOK WITH VIATOR Full-Day Private Nagano Tour: Zenkoji Temple, Obuse, Jigokudani Monkey Park

5.0

Duration: 8 hours

Tours from $216 »

Zenko-ji Temple reviews

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TripAdvisor traveler rating

1,926 reviews

By ramadurair2016

Loved the structure. Very historic and huge. They have also created a nice museum where the history and great artifacts are stored. Surrounding area has lot of temples and shops more »
By hfot2

We have visited Zenko-ji on three different sakura trips and each time the blossoms did not disappoint. The weeping tree on the side of the main hall is spectacular when in full bloom - not to be..... more »

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