Looking up at Hokusai's late-life masterpiece, the ceiling painting "Eight-Directional Phoenix"
About this spot
An ancient Soto Zen temple nestled at the base of Mount Karashida on the edge of Obuse town. The ceiling of the main hall is completely covered by Katsushika Hokusai's late-life masterpiece, "Eight-Directional Phoenix," which legend says meets your gaze from any viewing angle. Sitting on the tatami mats and looking up, you'll lose track of time admiring the vividly painted feathers. The grounds also contain a stone monument inscribed with a haiku by poet Kobayashi Issa and a mausoleum dedicated to Fukushima Masatsugu, packing many highlights into a small temple.
Tips
Remove your shoes before entering the main hall. Photographing the ceiling painting is prohibited, so imprint it in your memory. It's about a 20-minute walk from the town center, so using a car or taxi is recommended on rainy days. Free parking is available.
Best time to visit
Allow approximately 45 minutes. Late afternoon before closing is quiet and conducive to peaceful viewing
Access & map
〒381-0211 Nagano Prefecture, Kamitakai District, Obuse Town, Karita 615
Model course featuring this spot
Obuse: Chestnut Sweets and Hokusai Town Walk
Nagano
Other courses featuring this place
2026 Shinshu Takayama Festival Full-Day Experience Course
View Hokusai's Grand Masterpiece on the Temple Ceiling
Explore features & model courses
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