Kitamuki Kannon

Nagano Region


The grounds of this Tendai temple have some impressive ancient trees and sweeping valley views. The temple's name comes from the fact that this Kannon image faces north, a counterpart to the south-facing image at Zenkō-ji in Nagano.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Nagano Region attractions

1. Anraku-ji

0.23 MILES

Of the Sōtō Zen sect, Anraku-ji is the oldest Zen temple in Nagano. Dating from AD 824–34, it's a National Treasure, renowned for its octagonal pagoda…

2. Utsukushi-ga-hara Open Air Museum

8.27 MILES

Atop Utsukushi-ga-hara-kōgen plateau you'll find this seemingly random sculpture garden with some 350 pieces, mostly by Japanese sculptors. The…

3. Kaichi School Museum

12.85 MILES

A few blocks north of the castle, the former Kaichi School is both an Important Cultural Property and the oldest elementary school in Japan, founded in…

4. Matsumoto-jō

12.95 MILES

Must-see Matsumoto-jō is Japan's oldest wooden castle and one of four castles designated National Treasures – the others are Hikone, Himeji and Inuyama…

5. Matsumoto City Museum of Art

12.96 MILES

This sleek museum has a good collection of the work of Japanese artists, many of whom hail from Matsumoto or whose art depicts scenes of the surrounding…

6. Nawate-dōri

13.11 MILES

Nawate-dōri, a few blocks south from the castle, is a popular street for a stroll. Vendors along this riverside walk sell antiques, souvenirs, and…

7. Matsumoto Timepiece Museum

13.2 MILES

Home to Japan's largest pendulum clock (on the building's exterior) and over 300 other timepieces, including fascinating medieval Japanese creations, this…

8. Dai-ō Wasabi-Nōjo

13.82 MILES

Fancy some wasabi wine or ice cream? This farm, a 15-minute bike ride from JR Hotaka Station, is a must for wasabi-lovers. An English map guides you among…

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