Zenko-ji 善光寺

Visiting Zenko-ji today

• What it is: One of Japan's most important temples, open to all Buddhist sects for centuries. Visitors can walk the pitch-dark passage under the main hall to touch the key to paradise.
• Getting there: From JR Nagano Station, walk up Chuo-dori or take a local bus toward the temple.
• Hours: Inner sanctuary opens one hour before the morning service; closes 16:30 April–October, 16:15 March and November, 16:00 December–February.
• Admission: Grounds free. Inner sanctuary and Okaidan passage ¥800; set ticket ¥1,500. Raised in April 2026.
• Tip: Arrive before dawn to attend the morning service and receive a blessing from the head priest on the approach.

Checked against: 参拝券のご案内 - 善光寺 · 参拝料金および参拝券種を改定のおしらせ - 善光寺. Check opening times and prices before you go.

Zenko-ji on Shibuya246

We haven't been yet, so there are no photos here. The notes above come from official sources and are checked every quarter. Our own photos and story will appear here after we visit.