In the Edo period, as the era of peace continued, many people started to make a once in a lifetime pilgrimage to Zenkoji Temple. Zenkoji is known as a temple of non-discrimination and equality. There it is believed that anyone who chants and prays with their whole heart to the Buddha of Boundless Light, regardless of gender or status, will be led to the Pure Land of Paradise. This spring, why not enjoy the cherry blossoms in full bloom while visiting the historic National Treasure, Zenkoji Temple?
Historic temple Zenkoji Temple
Zenkoji Temple has a very long history, going back 1400 years to 642 AD. The main statue is "Ikko Sanson Amitabha Tathagata" and it is said to be one of the oldest Buddhist images in Japan. It was brought from Baekje (present-day Korea) to Japan in 642 by Honda Yoshimitsu of Shinano Province (present day Nagano Prefecture). 
The image is of the Buddha of Boundless Light flanked by two attendants all sharing one halo. The temple was named “Zenko” after the Chinese pronunciation of Yoshimitsu’s name. In 1953, the main hall where the main statue is enshrined was designated as a national treasure.
Zenkoji Temple is a "non-sectarian" temple and has attracted the faith of many people since ancient times because anyone can visit regardless of sect or status. During the Sengoku period, it was worshiped by many warlords, and during the Edo period, many commoners visited to worship. It is also said that there were also many females among the worshipers.
Spring cherry blossoms and Zenkoji Temple
For the Japanese, cherry blossoms are something special, symbolizing the arrival of spring and new beginnings. Many people associate cherry blossoms with important memories such as school and company entrance ceremonies. In addition, cherry blossoms, which fall in a short period of time, give a sense of beauty and transience and have been cherished by the Japanese people since ancient times. Therefore, the culture of "cherry blossom viewing" to enjoy cherry blossoms for a limited period of time is widely popular in Japan.
You can enjoy cherry blossom viewing while visiting Zenkoji Temple. One place to visit is Joyama Park, which is about a 5-minute walk from the temple. Joyama Park is located east of the temple and is the most famous cherry blossom spot in Nagano City. About 470 Somei Yoshino trees are in full bloom. On the way to Zenkoji Temple, there is a cobblestone street called "Nakamise Street" that stretches about 200 meters between Niomon Gate and Sanmon Gate. There are about 50 shops including souvenir shops and restaurants lining this street. You can enjoy sweets and Nagano Prefecture specialties such as oyaki, apples, and miso.
Page Top