What you cannot miss in Nagano -- Early-Morning Service at Zenko-ji temple, Nagano

Zenko-ji Temple is the pride of Nagano -- even the pride of Japan.

It attracts more than 6,000,000 people annually.

However, many people miss the greatest part of their visits.

To fully enjoy its serene solemn atmosphere, stay at one of its 39 shukubo ( inns to serve for pilgrims run by temples affiliated to Zenko-ji), and join the morning service performed by both Zenkoji 'top priest' and

'top priestess' along with those shukubo monks!

 We started our tour here at the 'Deva King Gate' in the crisp air. You will see only some people in early morning.

Before joining the morning ritual, we received a blessing from the top priest, which is very special and impressive that you cannot experience anywhere else in Japan.

Daihongan--the temple of the top priestess 

Purified ourselves with the smoke from the insence burner.

Shaka-do

Temple Bell Tower

Photo from a couple of months ago -- during the grand festival 'Go-Kaicho', people waited for a long time to touch the pillar called Eko-bashira, which features in the festival.

 

Now you can touch it anytime to your heart's content.

The main approach is also calm.