Zenkoji Temple is a historic Buddhist temple located in the city of Nagano, Japan. The temple is believed to have been founded in the 7th century and is one of the oldest and most important temples in Japan. It is also one of the few temples in Japan that has never been destroyed by fire or war.
The temple is famous for its main hall, which houses a hidden statue of Amida Buddha. The statue is only shown to the public once every six years, and is said to be one of the most important Buddhist artifacts in Japan. The temple also has a large bell tower, which is rung every morning and evening to mark the beginning and end of the day.
The temple grounds are also home to several other buildings, including a museum that houses a collection of Buddhist artifacts and a pagoda that dates back to the 16th century. The grounds are also home to several gardens and ponds, which are popular with visitors.
Zenkoji Temple is also known for its annual lantern festival, which takes place in August. During the festival, the temple grounds are decorated with thousands of lanterns, and there are traditional Japanese performances and food stalls.
Overall, Zenkoji Temple is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Japanese history and culture. Its rich history, stunning architecture, and beautiful grounds make it one of the most important and impressive temples in Japan.
