Zenkoji Temple's

Zenkoji Temple is a major sightseeing temple in Nagano City, Nagano Prefecture. It has excellent access: about a 30-minute walk from JR Nagano Station, buses are also available, and there are large parking lots, so it attracts many visitors from across Japan. It is said to have been built about 1,400 years ago, and since the Edo period there has been a saying: “Once in a lifetime, visit Zenkoji.” In spring you can enjoy cherry blossoms, in summer lush greenery, in autumn colorful foliage, and in winter the Omotesando approach is illuminated, letting you enjoy different scenery in each season—making it a place you’ll want to visit not just once, but many times. The main hall is designated a National Treasure, and many visitors are impressed by its size and presence. As a non-sectarian temple emphasizing that “faith matters,” it is also frequently introduced among younger generations as a “power spot.” The Nakamise shopping street is well developed, and the temple offers accessibility features such as free wheelchair rentals and ramps, making it easy for anyone to visit. Every February, the “Tōmyō Festival” is held, featuring lantern paintings and large lanterns along Omotesando, and the fantastical illuminated view of Zenkoji.