Komzenji Temple Main Hall (光前寺 本堂)

Flow of the course

About this spot

An ancient Tendai Buddhist temple said to have been founded during the Heian period, and a major prayer site representing the southern Nagano region. It is known for the legend of the Spirit Dog Hayataro, who is said to have defeated a demon that tormented the local people. Within the temple grounds are statues and a burial site of Hayataro. The approach lined with towering old cedar trees is refreshing to walk through, and luminescent moss glimmering faintly in crevices of stone walls is a hidden gem. The temple is also famous as a spot to see weeping cherry blossoms in spring, with impressive pagodas and other structures throughout the grounds.

Tips

Exploration of the temple grounds is free; admission to the abbot's garden is paid (costs shown are estimate for admission fee). It's approximately a 5-minute drive from Suga-no-dai Bus Center, making it an easy stop after descending the ropeway. The approach has a gravel path, so wear comfortable walking shoes. You can spot luminescent moss more easily by looking into the gaps of stone walls on both sides of the approach.

Best time to visit

Total time approximately 1 hour. Afternoon hours offer pleasant dappled sunlight on the approach.

Access & map

〒399-4117 長野県駒ヶ根市赤穂２９