Overview
Kannon-in is a temple of the Chizan school of Shingon Buddhism in Minato 4-chome, Okaya City, Nagano Prefecture. Its mountain name is Ryukozan and its principal image is the Eleven-headed Kannon. It is widely known by its popular name, Kosaka Kannon-in. Celebrated for its setting overlooking Lake Suwa, it is a temple where the lakeside scenery and devotion to Kannon come together to offer the distinctive mood of the Suwa area.
Highlights
- ●An old Shingon Chizan-school temple enshrining the Eleven-headed Kannon
- ●A locally cherished temple known as Kosaka Kannon-in
- ●A setting overlooking Lake Suwa with open lakeside scenery
- ●The dignified air of a mountain temple bearing the name Ryukozan
History
Belonging to the Chizan school of Shingon Buddhism and bearing the mountain name Ryukozan, this old temple enshrines the Eleven-headed Kannon as its principal image. Long rooted in the community under the popular name Kosaka Kannon-in, it has been cherished as a place of faith on the shore of Lake Suwa. For the detailed history of its founding and later restorations, it is best to check on-site records or official information.
Access
The temple is located in Minato 4-chome, Okaya City, at roughly 36.04 degrees north and 138.07 degrees east, on the western side of Lake Suwa. It lies along the route circling the lake and can be reached from the Okaya Station area or the lakeside road. Public transport may be limited, so please check official information for the latest access and parking details.
Best season
The seasons of fresh greenery and autumn foliage, when the views of Lake Suwa are most beautiful, and clear-air periods are especially recommended. The contrast between the openness unique to the lakeside and the stillness of praying before Kannon is delightful, and the shifting light of morning and evening is a highlight. As the Suwa area is cold in winter, dress warmly.
Map
36.0352, 138.0686 · Wikidata
Suggested itinerary
- 1Head toward the Minato area from Okaya Station or the Lake Suwa shore road
- 2Arrive at Kannon-in (Kosaka Kannon-in) and pray before the Eleven-headed Kannon
- 3Enjoy the view of Lake Suwa from the temple grounds
- 4Stroll along the lakeshore and combine the visit with nearby sights or hot springs
Did you know?
💡 Enshrining the Eleven-headed Kannon and beloved by the popular name Kosaka Kannon-in gives this temple its character. Its position overlooking Lake Suwa makes it easy to combine a visit with a lakeside stroll, making it a handy stop on a tour around Suwa.
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