At the entrance of this magnificent temple, visitors are greeted by a beautifully maintained garden that exudes both serenity and grace. Every hour on the hour, the devoted monks ring a bell outside, filling the air with a soothing, resonant chime that gently calms the soul. Stepping inside, you are led through a mysterious, 30‑meter-long tunnel shrouded in darkness—a path that seems to transport you to another realm. Legend has it that if you dare to touch the sacred “key to paradise” etched upon the wall of this tunnel, you are blessed with a lifetime of fortune and peace.
Beyond the temple, a delightful shopping street beckons. This charming avenue, lined with quaint shops and stalls, offers not just souvenirs but also a leisurely stroll steeped in local culture and history. Whether you pause to admire the well-tended flora or wander amidst the vibrant market, every moment here enriches the entire experience.
An absolute must-see when visiting Nagano, this expansive attraction offers plenty of space to explore without feeling crowded. The vast grounds provide a serene setting where you can wander freely, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere that stands in stark contrast to more congested tourist spots.
Moreover, this site serves as an ideal starting point for discovering many of Nagano’s other attractions. Within a short distance, you can venture to the acclaimed art museum, which houses a remarkable collection of traditional and contemporary works that celebrate both local heritage and modern creativity. For nature enthusiasts and families alike, the nearby zoo presents an excellent opportunity to observe a diverse range of animal species in thoughtfully designed habitats.
Additionally, history and sports fans will appreciate the solemn memorial dedicated to the 1998 Olympic Winter Games—a poignant tribute to a landmark event in Nagano’s history. Whether you are drawn by art, wildlife, or historical significance, this location sets the stage for a well-rounded exploration of everything Nagano has to offer.
Overall, with its ample space and strategic location, this attraction not only enchants with its own beauty but also acts as a gateway to the rich cultural and historical tapestry of Nagano.
Took a nice 2km walk from the train station up to the temple. It was worth it. The complex has several points of interest and is nicely laid out. There were some places that we couldn't enter, but that didn't detract from the overall experience. If you go, I do recommend walking up the road from the train station rather than taking the bus or some other ride.
While taking photos, I overheard from a Japanese telling to his 2 friends that Zenkoji Temple is the third largest in Japan after Nara and Kyoto. My wife and I walked past Zenkoji temple four times during our short 4-night stay in Nagano. Thus we witnessed four very different scenarios; peaceful weekday morning, vibrant busy weekend, late afternoon raining with cherry flowers decorating the floor path, and the only brief sunny cold afternoon. Not only because of the scenic cherry-blossom-temple which we quite enjoyed submerging in, there are a number of nice cafes and restaurants around Zenkoji Temple that we are after so it’s inevitable to pass by 🤭.
