Founded more than 1,400 years ago, Zenkoji Temple is one of Japan’s most important Buddhist sites and has welcomed pilgrims from across the country for centuries. The temple is known for enshrining a sacred Buddhist image believed to be among the first brought to Japan. Visitors can explore the impressive main hall and lively approach lined with traditional shops while experiencing the spiritual atmosphere that continues to shape Nagano’s cultural identity today.

Obuse is a charming town known for its beautifully preserved streets, traditional merchant houses, and rich cultural heritage. As you stroll through the town, you will discover local shops, historic architecture, and a welcoming atmosphere that reflects the prosperity of this former merchant town. Walking through Obuse offers an opportunity to experience everyday life, local craftsmanship, and the cultural character that has made the town a beloved destination.

The Hokusai Kan showcases the life and artistic achievements of Katsushika Hokusai, one of Japan’s most celebrated artists. Through paintings, sketches, and rotating exhibitions, visitors can explore the creativity and innovation that made Hokusai famous around the world. The museum also highlights his deep connection with Obuse, where he spent part of his later years creating some of his most remarkable masterpieces.

Kozan Takai was a wealthy merchant, scholar, and cultural patron who played a key role in shaping Obuse’s cultural identity. The museum preserves his former residence and introduces the intellectual and artistic exchanges that flourished there during the late Edo period. Visitors can gain a deeper understanding of the environment that attracted artists such as Hokusai and helped transform Obuse into a center of culture and creativity.

Ganshoin Temple is famous for its magnificent ceiling painting of a phoenix created by Katsushika Hokusai in his late eighties. Considered one of his greatest achievements, the artwork remains in its original location and can still be admired today. Surrounded by a peaceful natural setting, the temple offers a unique opportunity to appreciate both Japanese spirituality and one of the masterpieces of late Edo-period art.