5659 Fukushima, Kiso Town, Kiso District, Nagano Prefecture
Rating
Cost per person
¥1,000
Kouzenji Temple, located in Kiso Fukushima, is a historic Zen temple easily accessible from JR Kiso Fukushima Station. This temple is renowned for its expansive karesansui (dry landscape) garden, considered one of the largest in the Orient, designed by Mirei Shigemori. Visitors can also explore the temple's treasure hall, which houses a collection of art and historical artifacts, including lacquerware from the Edo period. The temple grounds feature multiple gardens, including the Shoryu no Niwa and Bansho-tei, offering a serene experience of Japanese beauty. Kouzenji is also the final resting place of Kiso Yoshinaka's hair and a memorial to the origin of the Kiso folk dance. The temple is a must-visit for those exploring Kiso Fukushima.