Buddhist temple
Zenkō-ji
善光寺（ぜんこうじ）
Nagano, Nagano Prefecture
Its principal image is the Ikkō Sanzon, which represents Amida Nyorai, Kannon Bosatsu, and Seishi Bosatsu within a single halo. It is a temple that has received people's prayers regardless of sect.
English pages are the site’s own translations of its Japanese pages. The sources cited are in Japanese. 日本語で読む
Prayers associated with this place
Principal image: Ikkō Sanzon Amida Nyorai
History and things to know
The temple's founding legend tells of the arrival of Buddhism and of Honda Yoshimitsu welcoming the principal image to Shinano. Zenkō-ji itself does not belong to any particular sect; it is maintained by both the Tendai and Jōdo schools.
Introduced by this site, based on materials from the shrine or temple and public bodies.
Related kami and buddhas
Before you visit
The principal image is an absolutely hidden image (zettai hibutsu). It is distinguished from the Maedachi Honzon (the stand-in image) that is shown during the Gokaichō (public unveiling). Please check the official guide for what can be viewed.
Official website of the shrine or temple (may be in Japanese)
Sources (in Japanese)
- 善光寺「御祭神・御本尊・由緒の公式案内」（2026-10-16 確認）
- 善光寺「本堂・御本尊」（2026-10-16 確認）
This site is independent of the shrines, temples, and other websites mentioned. No partnership or endorsement is implied.