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Zenkōji Honbō Daikanjin: A Journey into Zen Buddhism

Immerse yourself in Zen Buddhism at Zenkōji Honbō Daikanjin in Nagano, Japan. Experience tranquility through meditation and traditional practices.

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Zenkōji Honbō Daikanjin, a serene Buddhist temple in Nagano, Japan, offers visitors a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in Zen practices. Experience sutra copying, Zen meditation, and traditional fire ceremonies in a tranquil setting, fostering a deeper understanding of Japanese spirituality.

A brief summary to Zenkōji Honbō Daikanjin

  • Monday 8 am-3 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-3 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-3 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-3 pm
  • Friday 8 am-3 pm
  • Saturday 8 am-3 pm
  • Sunday 8 am-3 pm

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning for a quieter experience and to witness the morning rituals.
  • Participate in a Zen Journey program for a more immersive cultural experience.
  • Be mindful of temple etiquette, such as removing shoes before entering certain areas.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From JR Nagano Station, take a local bus to the Zenkōji-Daimon bus stop. Buses depart from Bus Stop #1 in front of the Zenkōji Exit of Nagano Station. The bus ride takes approximately 15 minutes and costs JPY 190. From the Zenkōji-Daimon bus stop, it is a 5-minute walk to Zenkōji Honbō Daikanjin.

  • Walking

    From JR Nagano Station, it is approximately a 30-minute walk to Zenkōji Honbō Daikanjin. Head north from the station towards Zenkōji Temple. Follow the main road (Zenkōji Omotesando) leading to the temple. Zenkōji Honbō Daikanjin is located near the main Zenkōji Temple complex.

  • Car

    From the Nagano Interchange (IC) on the Joshin-etsu Expressway, it takes approximately 40 minutes to drive to Zenkōji Honbō Daikanjin. Follow the signs to Zenkōji Temple. Parking is available in several lots around the temple. Parking fees are generally JPY 500 for up to 2 hours, with additional charges for longer periods.

Unlock the Best of Zenkōji Honbō Daikanjin

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Discover more about Zenkōji Honbō Daikanjin

Zenkōji Honbō Daikanjin, nestled in Nagano, is a celebrated Buddhist temple offering a transformative cultural experience. Unlike the main Zenkōji Temple, Daikanjin provides an intimate setting to explore Zen Buddhism through hands-on activities. Visitors can participate in sutra copying (shakyo), a practice involving the careful tracing of Buddhist scriptures to calm the mind and enhance focus. Zazen, or Zen meditation, is another key offering, where experienced monks guide participants in mindful breathing and seated meditation. The temple also hosts the Goma fire ceremony, where personal wishes written on wooden plaques are symbolically offered to the universe through a sacred fire. Zenkōji Honbō Daikanjin is managed by a chief priest, called “okanshu-sama”, who, together with the high priestess of Daihongan Temple, also serves as a head priest of Zenkōji Temple. This connection to the main Zenkōji Temple, which enshrines what is believed to be one of the oldest Buddhist statues in Japan, enriches the spiritual significance of Daikanjin. The temple welcomes visitors of all backgrounds, providing a peaceful escape and a chance to connect with Japan's rich spiritual heritage.

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