Zenkōji temple Travel Guide

Free Guide: Discover spiritual enlightenment and ancient history at Nagano's iconic Zenkōji Temple, a welcoming sanctuary for all.

Download on the App Store Get it on Google Play Download the Free PDF guide
Zenkōji temple

A brief summary of Zenkōji temple

Discover spiritual enlightenment and ancient history at Nagano's iconic Zenkōji Temple, a welcoming sanctuary for all.

Zenkōji Temple, founded in the 7th century, stands as one of Japan's most significant and beloved Buddhist temples. Renowned for its unique history, cultural importance and for housing what is believed to be the first Buddhist statue ever brought to Japan, this non-sectarian temple welcomes all.

4.5 Excellent · 23,158 Google reviews
Address
〒380-0851 Nagano, Motoyoshicho, 491番地 イ
Phone
Website

Getting there

Walking

From JR Nagano Station, the temple is approximately a 30-minute walk. Exit the station via the Zenkoji Exit and follow the temple markers. Head northwest to Chuo-dori Street, turn right, and follow the road straight to the temple. Enjoy the shops and restaurants lining the street.

Public Transport

From JR Nagano Station, take a bus from Bus Stop #1. All buses from this stop go to Zenkōji. Get off at the Zenkoji Daimon bus stop, a 5-10 minute walk to the main hall. The bus ride takes about 15 minutes and costs ¥190. Alternatively, take the Nagaden Line subway from Nagano Station to Zenkojishita Station (4 minutes, ¥170), followed by a 5-10 minute walk to the temple.

Taxi

A taxi from JR Nagano Station to Zenkōji Temple costs approximately ¥1,200-¥1,350. The ride is about 10 minutes, depending on traffic.

Driving

Zenkōji Temple is approximately 10 km from the Nagano Interchange (IC). Paid parking lots are available near the temple. Zenkoji Parking Lot #1 (Northwest of the precincts) is open 24 hours for general passenger cars. Parking fees are around ¥500.

Discover more about Zenkōji temple

Overview

Zenkōji Temple, nestled in Nagano, is a spiritual haven with a rich history dating back to the 7th century. This revered site is believed to house the first Buddhist statue ever brought to Japan. The original statue is hidden, but a copy is displayed every six years. The next opportunity to view it will be in 2027.The temple's main hall, rebuilt in 1707, showcases a unique 'Shumoku Zukuri' architectural style. Visitors can explore the inner chamber, where, for a fee, they can descend into an underground passage in complete darkness, seeking the 'key to paradise'. Touching this key is said to grant salvation. The Sanmon Gate, dating back to 1750, offers panoramic views of the temple grounds and city. The temple approach, Nakamise-dori, is lined with shops and restaurants.Zenkōji is a non-denominational temple, welcoming people of all faiths. A morning ceremony is held daily, where visitors can receive blessings from a priest or priestess. The temple complex also includes the Zenkōji History Museum, which displays Buddhist sculptures and artifacts.

Evendo Review Centre

Reviews from Google
By star rating

Guest reviews

Explore Zenkōji temple on the map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Zenkōji temple, mapped for you.

Get your free copy of our complete guide to Zenkōji temple, delivered straight to you.

Everything on this page, from opening hours and how to get there to Eve’s tips and the best time to go, in one PDF you can read offline, print or share.

Already have an account? Sign in

By clicking Create account, you accept the Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy.

Unlock the best of Zenkōji temple

Skip-the-line tickets, guided tours with entry, and walking tours of the area, booked in a few clicks.

See all tours and tickets

Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

More to explore near Zenkōji temple

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery.

Activate your presence Learn more about listing your business on Evendo

Explore more

Omi
More of the region

Explore more of Omi

Discover Omi, where serene lakes, historic castles, and delectable cuisine come together to offer an authentic and unforgettable Japanese experience.

Explore Omi
Japan
More of the country

Explore more of Japan

Discover the harmony of tradition and modernity in Japan, where ancient temples and cutting-edge technology coexist in perfect balance.

Explore Japan
The Evendo app on two phones

Your all-in-one travel companion app

Explore expert travel guides, compare and book tours, experiences, hotels, and more, all from the palm of your hand. Download now for seamless trip planning wherever your wanderlust takes you.

  • Travel guides to regions, countries, cities, landmarks and attractions worldwide
  • Photos, local tips, maps, opening hours and contact details for every place
  • Easy booking for hotels, tours, tickets and experiences
Download on the App Store Get it on Google Play
More about the Evendo app

Evendo is a 100% free travel guide app: plan a trip, find what is worth seeing and book it, all in one place.

  • Restaurants, bars, nightclubs and shops picked for every destination
  • A "Near me" view of the attractions and amenities around you
  • History and travel essentials for each country and city

From world regions down to a single landmark, every guide brings together the places to see, where to eat and drink, and where to stay, with descriptions, photos and maps to help you plan.

No in-app purchases and no hidden costs. Download Evendo and take your guides with you wherever you travel.

Get the latest from Evendo

Hand-picked travel deals, new destination guides and trip ideas, straight to your inbox.