Zenkoji Temple

Overview

Zenkoji Temple, located in Nagano City, Nagano Prefecture, was founded in the 7th century and is considered one of the "Three Great Zenkoji Temples," alongside the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage. It's a leading tourist attraction in Nagano Prefecture, drawing numerous worshippers and visitors year-round. Zenkoji's founding dates back to the 7th century. According to legend, in 826 AD (during the Tencho era), Ennin (Jikaku Daishi), a monk from Mount Hiei, built a temple in Usu District, Iburi Province, and enshrined the principal image of Amitabha Tathagata, which he himself had carved. This is considered the temple's founding. Throughout its long history, Zenkoji has been struck by numerous fires and earthquakes but has been rebuilt each time. The current main hall, reconstructed in the 17th century, is designated as an Important Cultural Property. This magnificent structure houses the "Zenkoji Nyorai," also an Important Cultural Property. In addition to the Zenkoji Nyorai, the main hall contains many other Buddhist statues and paintings. Zenkoji also features the Zenkoji Treasure Museum, housing Buddhist art and historical materials, and the Zenkoji Museum, showcasing the temple's history and culture. The Treasure Museum displays Buddhist statues, paintings, implements, and scriptures, while the Museum presents historical documents and photographs related to Zenkoji's history and culture. Zenkoji is a leading tourist attraction in Nagano Prefecture, attracting many worshippers and visitors. When visiting Zenkoji, be sure to take your time exploring the main hall, treasure museum, and museum to fully appreciate its rich history and culture.