What other travelers are saying about Hoshakuzan Kozenji Temple
Kōzen-ji Temple (Hoshakuzan Kōzenji – 光前寺) is a historic Tendai Buddhist temple. It was founded in 860 CE by the monk Honjō Shōnin, a disciple of the famous Ennin.
The temple features are:
Hondō (Main Hall): Rebuilt in 1851, it serves as the spiritual heart of the temple.
Sanmon (Main Gate): Reconstructed in 1848, it marks the entrance to the sacred area.
Three-story Pagoda: A striking 17-meter-high structure rebuilt in 1808.
Kōzen-ji is known for its beautiful moss-covered stone paths, ancient Japanese cedars, and serene atmosphere. Its gardens are officially recognized as a Place of Scenic Beauty in Japan. It is especially popular in mid to late April, when the weeping cherry trees are in full bloom. However when we visited on April 9, they were not yet blooming.
The temple is associated with the legend of Hayatarō, a brave temple dog who is said to have sacrificed his life to save a village from a monstrous creature. His grave is located on the temple grounds and draws visitors and pilgrims.
Entrance is free.
There is spacious parking outside main entrance, and another one a little bit up the road.
Well worth a visit if your in Komagane.
Beautiful ceder corridor with some large trees around the grounds. Sakura was just starting to flower so good if you travelling mid to late April and missed it elsewhere.
A nice temple with a long sando walkway leading up to it. Along the sando look into the space between the rocks for some moss that reflects light and seems to glow in the dark.
Hoshakuzan Kozenji Temple was founded in 860 AD by Holy Shonin during the Heian period, making it over 1,200 years old. It holds the distinction of being one of the five major Tendai temples in the Shinetsu region and is considered the most sacred site in Southern Nagano Prefecture. The temple grounds have been designated as a national landmark, recognizing its cultural and historical importance to Japan.
Visitors enter through the traditional Niomon Gate and walk along a path lined with centuries-old giant cedar trees covering approximately 6.7 hectares. The temple's primary deity is Fudo Myo-o, housed as a hibutsu (hidden Buddha statue). A unique feature is the naturally occurring Hikarigoke moss that grows in the gaps between stones in the temple's walls - this rare luminescent moss creates an ethereal atmosphere. The temple also offers spectacular views of the central Japanese Alps.
The temple is located at 29 Akaho, Komagane-shi, Nagano Prefecture, positioned near the Komagatake Ropeway and Senjojiki Cirque. Visitors can reach the temple by taking public transportation to Komagane City, then using local buses or taxi services to reach the temple grounds. The location at the base of the central Japanese Alps makes it easily accessible for those exploring the mountain region.
Yes, an admission fee is required to enter the temple grounds. The specific rates vary depending on the season and visitor category (adult, child, group rates, etc.). It's recommended to check current pricing before visiting, as fees may be adjusted for special exhibitions or seasonal events.
Hoshakuzan Kozenji Temple belongs to the Tendai sect of Buddhism, one of the major schools of Japanese Buddhism. As a Tendai temple, it serves as both a place of worship and spiritual retreat, attracting religious pilgrims seeking meditation and prayer. The temple's role as one of the five major Tendai temples in the Shinetsu region makes it an important center for Tendai Buddhist practice and learning.
