Guide
Jokoji is a Shingon Buddhist temple located in Obuse Town, Nakai Kamitakai District, Nagano Prefecture. Often referred to as the temple of "Tsumoi Yakushi," it has been a center of devotion for centuries. The greatest highlight is the Yakushi-do Hall, a National Important Cultural Property established in the early Muromachi period. This architectural masterpiece, boasting over 600 years of history, underwent a complete thatched roof replacement in 2007 to preserve its stunning appearance. Additionally, the temple grounds feature the "Goryo-sen" spring, selected as one of the top 50 waters of Shinshu, offering visitors a sense of profound healing and peace.
The history of this temple is deeply rooted in the past; the Yakushi-do Hall is said to have been built in 1408 (Oei 15). This structure serves as a precious cultural heritage that conveys the traditional aesthetic and advanced craftsmanship of the Muromachi period to the modern era. While the main hall was once lost to fire in 1879, it was rebuilt using materials from a nearby former elementary school, illustrating how the temple has moved forward alongside the history and memories of the local community. The presence of a monument dedicated to the Edo-period haiku poet Kobayashi Issa further highlights the deep cultural significance of this site.
The undeniable highlight of Jokoji is the Yakushi-do Hall. The heavy, historic structure and the beautiful sight of the well-maintained thatched roof are truly a sight to behold. Another essential experience is visiting the Goryo-sen spring located near the temple's kura (storehouse) garden. This spring is part of the Ganda-yama foothills water group and is celebrated for its purity. Furthermore, the "Goma Fire Ritual," held on the first Sunday of every month, offers a powerful cultural experience. Watching the ritual where fire is used to fulfill prayers provides a deeply moving moment of spiritual purification for many visitors.
Jokoji reveals different faces depending on the season. The harmony between the ancient architecture and the surrounding nature is particularly captivating. To experience the most solemn atmosphere, visit during the Goma Fire Ritual, typically held around 11:00 AM on the first Sunday of each month. For those seeking quiet reflection, the peaceful moments spent listening to the sound of the Goryo-sen spring are perfect for escaping the noise of daily life and connecting with oneself.
Beyond simple sightseeing, Jokoji offers profound spiritual experiences. During the Goma Fire Ritual, monks burn incense and fire before the deity to symbolize the burning away of misfortunes and the fulfillment of wishes. This ritual has long been practiced for protection against evil, health, and family safety. In recent years, the temple has also hosted cultural activities such as "Fude-asobi" (brush play), providing opportunities to engage with traditional Japanese arts.
Jokoji is situated in the heart of Obuse, a town rich in North Shinano culture. The surrounding area features sites related to the artist Katsushika Hokusai, monuments of Kobayashi Issa, and beautiful historic streets. We recommend exploring the area around Obuse Station alongside your visit to the temple. The region is also blessed with abundant natural beauty, including the many springs at the foot of Mount Ganda.
Visitors are welcome to bring pets to the temple grounds, provided that owners take full responsibility for pet waste and cleanliness. To respect the sacred space and historical buildings, please maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor. We recommend wearing modest, comfortable clothing suitable for a temple visit (avoiding overly revealing attire). Please note that cash is required for purchasing amulets (omamori) or for ritual-related offerings.