Myōsen-ji Temple

Overview

Myosen-ji is a temple of the Jodo Shinshu Hongwanji school in Shinano Town, Kamiminochi District, Nagano Prefecture. Its mountain name is Shuhoku-zan, and it enshrines a wooden standing statue of Amida Nyorai as its principal image. Set in the highland town of Shinano in northern Shinshu, it quietly carries on the teaching of the nembutsu.

Highlights

• ●An old temple said to date from 1232, back to the Kamakura period
• ●A temple of the Jodo Shinshu Hongwanji school
• ●A wooden standing statue of Amida Nyorai as the principal image
• ●The distinctive mountain name Shuhoku-zan

History

According to temple tradition it was founded in 1232, giving it a long history reaching back to the Kamakura period. Belonging to the Jodo Shinshu Hongwanji school and enshrining a wooden standing Amida Nyorai as its main image, it has served as a spiritual anchor for the community. For details of its history and treasures, it is best to consult official information and local guidance.

Map

36.8075, 138.2033 · Wikidata

Suggested itinerary

1. 1From central Shinano Town head to Myosen-ji
2. 2Pay respects at the main hall in the quiet precincts
3. 3Take in the atmosphere of this Jodo Shinshu temple
4. 4Tour the surrounding rural scenery of northern Shinshu

Did you know?

💡 Along with its old lineage said to date from 1232, its mountain name Shuhoku-zan is striking. It stands in Shinano Town, also known as a place connected to the haiku poet Kobayashi Issa, nestled within the cultural landscape of northern Shinshu.

Nearby spots