Shinano Kokubun-niji

What it is

• A Tendai sect Buddhist temple that succeeded the ancient provincial temple of Shinano.
• The main hall enshrines Yakushi Nyorai and is designated as a Nagano Prefectural Treasure.
• The original temple grounds are preserved as a National Historic Site.
• A stone monument marks the meeting place of Sanada Masayuki and Tokugawa forces.

What to see

• A three-story pagoda designated as a National Important Cultural Property.
• The Shinano Kokubunji Museum which displays artifacts from the site.
• Traditional Somin Shorai amulets distributed during the annual festival.

When to go

• The Yokado Ennichi festival takes place on January 7th and 8th.

Getting there

• The temple is a five-minute walk from Shinano-Kokubunji Station.

Notes written by Japan Gems from facts in Japanese Wikipedia.