Experience the thrill together navigating Japan's only swastika-shaped inner sanctum circuit
About this spot
A temple nestled at the foot of the small Anyakura Mountain, watching over Seki City. Formally known as Shokyu-ji, it was founded following the style of Zenkoji Temple in Nagano, which is why it is affectionately called Seki Zenkoji Temple. The temple's most distinctive feature is Japan's only swastika-shaped inner sanctum circuit (戒壇めぐり). Navigating through the pitch-black underground corridor beneath the main hall by touch and feeling your way along the walls is a extraordinary experience that naturally brings couples closer together. Climbing the stone steps and reaching the temple grounds rewards you with an expansive view of Seki's streetscape, making it perfect for a rest during your walk.
Tips
Admission to the temple grounds is free, but the inner sanctum circuit is fee-based (approximately 300 yen). The corridor is genuinely pitch-black, so avoid using smartphone lights and fully embrace the darkness—that's the real charm of the experience. The grounds have stairs and slopes, so wear comfortable walking shoes. There is parking near the temple grounds, which is usually relatively empty before noon.
Best time to visit
Approximately 1 hour. Before noon, there are fewer visitors, and you can enter the inner sanctum circuit without waiting
Access & map
〒501-3882 岐阜県関市西日吉町３５
Model course featuring this spot
Seki City: Monet's Pond and Blade-crafting Town Drive
Gifu
Explore features & model courses
Like this spot? Sign up free to save it to your own booklet as a plan or a want-to-go.