Anraku-ji 安楽寺
Its octagonal pagoda, unique in Japan, has been a National Treasure since 29 March 1952.
A Sōtō Zen temple in the Bessho Onsen hot spring area, known as ‘the Kamakura of Shinshū’ for its links with the Kamakura period. Founded in the eighth century, it is the oldest Zen temple in Nagano; its octagonal pagoda was built by the end of the thirteenth century according to a 2004 survey, and is considered the oldest Zen architecture in the country. The pagoda was designated a National Treasure on 29 March 1952, the same day as Matsumoto Castle. The temple also holds two statues of abbots designated Important Cultural Properties.
Nagano
Bessho-onsen
