Zenkoji Temple

Religious spot
★ 4.9 (8K+ reviews) • 2K+ booked
Immerse yourself in the rich history and spiritual significance of Zenkoji Temple Nagano, a 1400-year-old pilgrimage shrine nestled in the picturesque valley of Nagano city. Explore the hidden treasures, ancient serenity, and mystical world of this iconic temple, offering a unique and unforgettable experience for travelers seeking spiritual enlightenment and cultural immersion.
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491-イ, Motoyoshichō Nagano, 380-0851, Japan

The best of Zenkoji Temple

Bucket-list experiences

Zenkoji Experience Tour with Overnight 'Shukubo' Temple Lodging Stay

Zenkoji Experience Tour with Overnight 'Shukubo' Temple Lodging Stay

Afternoon departure
English available
Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
★ 4.5 (4)
US$ 253.29
Winter Tour From Nozawa Onsen: Snow Monkeys, Zenko-ji Temple & Sake

Winter Tour From Nozawa Onsen: Snow Monkeys, Zenko-ji Temple & Sake

English available
Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
US$ 170.00
2-Day Snow Monkey Tour: Nagano To Takayama via Matsumoto

2-Day Snow Monkey Tour: Nagano To Takayama via Matsumoto

English available
Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
US$ 840.49
Private Car Tour from Niigata/Myoko or Nagano

Private Car Tour from Niigata/Myoko or Nagano

Private tour
English available
Private group
Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
★ 4.7 (3) • New Activity
From US$ 162.39
1-Day Tour: Snow Monkeys, Zenko-ji Temple & Sake in Nagano

1-Day Tour: Snow Monkeys, Zenko-ji Temple & Sake in Nagano

English available
Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
Book now for tomorrow
★ 4.9 (123) • 2K+ booked
From US$ 164.35
1-Day Tour: Snow Monkeys & Snow Fun In Shiga Kogen

1-Day Tour: Snow Monkeys & Snow Fun In Shiga Kogen

English available
Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
Book now for tomorrow
★ 5.0 (22) • 500+ booked
US$ 208.25
Snow Monkey Park & Miso Production Bus Tour from Nagano/Tokyo

Snow Monkey Park & Miso Production Bus Tour from Nagano/Tokyo

English available
Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
From US$ 170.65
2-Day Snow Monkeys and Kusatsu Onsen Tour from Shinjuku
US$ 351.49
Nagano Snow Monkeys and Cherry Blossoms Day Tour

Nagano Snow Monkeys and Cherry Blossoms Day Tour

English available
Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
50+ booked
US$ 170.00
Nagano Area Private Ski Lessons

Nagano Area Private Ski Lessons

Morning departure
Up to 3 hrs
English available
Private group
New Activity
From US$ 613.59

Make it a getaway

Zenkoji Temple Yakuoin

Zenkoji Temple Yakuoin

Instant confirmation
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Temple Hotel Takayama Zenkoji

Instant confirmation
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US$ 173.40
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Toyoko Inn Nagano Station Zenkoji

Instant confirmation
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Sotetsu Fresa Inn Nagano-Zenkojiguchi

Sotetsu Fresa Inn Nagano-Zenkojiguchi

Instant confirmation
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Hotel Select Inn Nagano

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TENNEN-ONSEN HOTEL LiVEMAX PREMIUM Nagano-ekimae

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Hotel New Nagano NeXT

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Smile Hotel Nagano

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Dormy Inn Nagano Zenkounoyu Natural Hot Spring

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Hotel Abest Nagano Ekimae

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Why people love Zenkoji Temple

4.9 /5
8K+ reviews
Read all reviews
Taylah ******
6 days ago
Amazing experience! We explored the temple and learned about the history, we did a sake tasting then drove an hour to the monkey park where we had a delicious hot pot for lunch and then saw the monkeys. the walk to see the monkeys was steep and slippery and did go on for a fair bit, so keep that in mind if you have an mobility issues, however, the experience this tour provided was amazing and both tour guides were very friendly and helpful!
2+
Madaline ******
8 Jan
Tour guides where amazing! They did you dump you at a place, they took you to the important sites and gave an explanation! The lunch was delicious! The weather could not have been more perfect!
Alex *****
7 Jan
This tour is awesome. It’s a big day but due to it being spread out and a few bus rides we weren’t tired at all. Lunch was incredible and our tour guide Kevin was fantastic, very knowledgeable and a great guy. Definitely recommend!
2+
Klook User
7 Jan
Kevin and Kei will share to you more cultural details that you won’t be able to get by yourself during the tour. So it is always good to learn something new and make the experience more memorable.
Klook User
6 Jan
Nagano Tokyo REI Hotel exceeded our expectations! The staff was incredibly courteous and provided exceptional customer service throughout our stay. The room was moderate in size, but perfectly suited for two people with large suitcases, making it both comfortable and functional. The amenities were fantastic, with thoughtful touches that added to the overall experience. The hotel’s central location was a major plus, offering easy access to transportation, shops, and dining options in the heart of the city. We highly recommend this hotel for anyone looking for a convenient and comfortable stay in Nagano. We will definitely choose Nagano Tokyo REI Hotel again for our next visit!
Klook User
6 Jan
This was definitely a bucket list check-off! The meet up point was easy to find and our guide, Jens, was knowledgeable and funny. We visited Zenkoji temple and enjoyed the sake tasting. The lunch before we went to the park was simply delicious! The time alloted and pace was just right. Just be aware that there is a hike up to the park. Once there, you will have to take turns by the hot springs to get close to the monkeys, who do not seem to mind being oogled at! Jens was very patient with those of us who were bringing up the rear! All in all, a great experience!
Salina *******
4 Jan
incredible day. guided were great. So many Snow Monkey’s. thoroughly recommend- though buy ice shoes as it’s very slippery.
Пользователь Klook
4 Jan
we had an amazing day! The guides were very nice and knowledgeable, great lunch location as part of this tour, worth the price. If you are going in winter prepare good winter boots, we saw many people struggling to go up to the monkey onsen because they were wearing sneakers.

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FAQs about Zenkoji Temple

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What to know before visiting Zenkoji Temple

Remarkable Landmarks and Must-Visit Sights

Main Hall

Explore the Main Hall of Zenkoji, a functional temple that houses the enshrined images of the Amida Buddha. Witness the daily morning ritual conducted by the high priest or priestess and experience the spiritual ambiance of this sacred space.

Gardens of Zenkō-ji

Stroll through the tranquil Gardens of Zenkō-ji, a serene oasis that offers a peaceful retreat for visitors. Admire the beauty of the natural surroundings and immerse yourself in the contemplative atmosphere of the temple grounds.

Sanmon Gate

Marvel at the Sanmon Gate, an Important Cultural Property that houses wooden Buddhist statues and a plaque with hidden doves. Experience the rich history and architectural grandeur of this iconic gate.

Cultural and Historical Significance

Zenkoji Temple holds a sacred statue of the Amida-Nyorai buddha, gifted to Japan by a Korean king, symbolizing the deep-rooted cultural and historical ties between the two countries. Explore the temple's intricate architecture and spiritual practices that have attracted millions of visitors over the centuries.

Local Cuisine

Indulge in the flavors of Nagano city, known for its delicious local dishes such as apple-based delicacies and traditional Japanese cuisine. Experience the unique culinary offerings that reflect the region's agricultural heritage and culinary traditions.