Nunobiki Kannon Shakusounji Temple (Komoro City, Nagano Prefecture) Complete Guide | Kannon Hall on Cliff Faces and Goshuin Stamps / Access Information
Nunobiki Kannon (Shakusounji Temple) in Komoro City, Nagano Prefecture is a Tendai Buddhist temple featuring a spectacular Kannon hall built on a cliff face. Known as the birthplace of the legend “A cow leads you to visit Zenkoji Temple,” it has been a sacred place drawing believers for many centuries. This article provides detailed information about Nunobiki Kannon’s history, highlights, goshuin stamp information, and access methods—everything you should know before visiting.
About Nunobiki Kannon (Shakusounji Temple)
Nunobiki Kannon is formally known as Shakusounji Temple, a Tendai Buddhist temple. Located on a cliff face along the Chikumagawa River in Komoro City, Nagano Prefecture, it is beloved as “Shinshu’s Kakedzukuri (suspended construction)” due to its unique location.
Basic Information about the Temple
- Official Name: Shakusounji Temple (釈尊寺)
- Common Name: Nunobiki Kannon (布引観音)
- Sect: Tendai Buddhism
- Principal Image: Sho Kanzeon Bosatsu (Holy Avalokiteshvara Bodhisattva)
- Founder: Gyoki Bosatsu (according to tradition)
- Founding: Nara Period (traditionally 724 CE)
- Location: 2250 Okubo, Komoro City, Nagano Prefecture
The common name Nunobiki Kannon derives from the area where the Kannon hall stands being called “Nunobiki.” The place name is said to have been given because the flow of the Chikumagawa River appears to draw cloth.
History and Origins of Nunobiki Kannon
Creation Legend and Gyoki Bosatsu
The founding of Nunobiki Kannon is said to date back to 724 CE (Jinki Era 1) during the Nara Period. According to tradition, Gyoki Bosatsu, while traveling through the country on a pilgrimage, sensed spiritual energy in the cliff face of this area and enshrined the Sho Kanzeon Bosatsu, marking the temple’s beginning.
Gyoki was a prominent Buddhist monk of the Nara Period who devoted himself to missionary activities and social works among the common people. Numerous temples throughout Japan bear the tradition of being founded by Gyoki, and Nunobiki Kannon is one of them, having gathered regional faith over the ages.
The Legend “A Cow Leads You to Visit Zenkoji Temple”
Nunobiki Kannon is known as the birthplace of the famous saying “A cow leads you to visit Zenkoji Temple.” This legend tells the following story:
Long ago, an elderly woman of weak faith lived in the Nunobiki area. One day, as she hung cloth in her garden, a cow appeared from nowhere, caught the cloth on its horn, and ran away. The old woman desperately chased the cow to recover the cloth.
The cow ran northward along the Chikumagawa River, and the woman continued to chase it. Eventually, the cow entered the grounds of Zenkoji Temple and disappeared into the main hall. When the old woman entered the hall, she was touched by the majesty of the Buddha and awoke to deep faith.
This legend is still widely used today as a saying meaning to be guided in a good direction through unexpected encounters. At Nunobiki Kannon, stone monuments and information boards related to this legend are installed, conveying the story to visitors.
Historical Protection and Revival
Throughout history, Nunobiki Kannon underwent fires and was affected by warfare, yet it was revived through the protection of local people and those in power.
During the Sengoku Period, it is said to have received protection from the Takeda and Sanada clans who ruled the area. During the Edo Period, under the patronage of the Komoro Domain, it flourished as a sacred place visited by many pilgrims.
The current Kannon hall was reconstructed in the late Edo Period and features kakedzukuri architectural style characteristic of buildings protruding from cliff faces.
Highlights of Nunobiki Kannon
Kannon Hall (Main Hall) on the Cliff Face
The greatest highlight of Nunobiki Kannon is undoubtedly the Kannon hall built on the cliff. Built to project out from the cliff face of the Chikumagawa River’s river terrace, its appearance evokes memories of Kiyomizu Temple in Kyoto.
The Kannon hall is constructed in the kakedzukuri style, a building method that supports the structure with long pillars. From the viewing platform projecting from the cliff, one can see the flow of the Chikumagawa River and the townscape of Komoro, and on clear days, Asama Mountain and the Yatsugatake Mountain Range in the distance—the scenery is magnificent.
Particularly during autumn foliage season (late October to early November) and new leaf season (May to June), you can enjoy beautiful scenery harmonizing the surrounding nature with the temple.
Approach Path and Stone Steps
The approach to Nunobiki Kannon continues for approximately 200 stone steps from the temple gate to the Kannon hall. While some sections are steep, there are places to rest along the way, allowing you to ascend at your own pace.
Along the approach path, moss-covered stone Buddhist images and ancient stone monuments are scattered, creating an atmosphere that evokes history. The approach, surrounded by trees, remains cool even in summer, allowing you to enjoy forest bathing while making your pilgrimage.
Temple Gate (Nio Gate)
At the entrance of the approach stands an impressive temple gate (Nio Gate). Nio Guardian statues are enshrined on the left and right, welcoming visitors. This gate is also a historic structure, preserving the architectural style of the Edo Period.
Interior of Nunobiki Kannon Hall
The principal image of the Sho Kanzeon Bosatsu is enshrined within the Kannon hall. This Kannon is considered a secret Buddha, usually kept in a shrine cabinet, but may be revealed during special ceremonies.
The hall interior displays offerings and votive tablets from various periods, illustrating how it has gathered the faith of many people throughout its long history.
View from the Observation Platform
On the front of the Kannon hall is an observation platform, a characteristic feature of kakedzukuri construction. The view from here is wonderful—you can see the flow of the Chikumagawa River below, the townscape of Komoro on the opposite bank, and on fine days, even the distant Northern Alps.
Particularly at twilight, the mountains and river surface illuminated by the setting sun are beautiful, making this a popular photography spot.
Stone Buddhist Images in the Grounds
Scattered throughout the grounds are numerous stone Buddhist images dedicated from the Edo Period through the Meiji Period. Including Avalokiteshvara Bodhisattva, Jizo Bodhisattva, and Acalanatha, various Buddhist images are enshrined, each bearing a history of faith.
Monument to the Nunobiki Legend
A stone monument conveying the legend of “A cow leads you to visit Zenkoji Temple” stands in the grounds. The monument is inscribed with the legend’s contents, informing visitors that this place is the birthplace of the legend.
Annual Events at Nunobiki Kannon
Various ceremonies and events are held throughout the year at Nunobiki Kannon.
Spring Grand Festival (Mid-April)
A festival celebrating the arrival of spring, offering gratitude prayers to the principal image of Sho Kanzeon Bosatsu. Many local people participate, and the grounds become lively.
Summer Grand Festival (Mid-August)
A ceremony held to coincide with Obon (Ullambana). Services for ancestor veneration are conducted, and many pilgrims visit.
Autumn Grand Festival (Mid-October)
A grand festival held during the beautiful fall foliage season. During this period, many tourists visit, and the grounds become crowded with those enjoying the autumn foliage view from the Kannon hall.
New Year’s First Visit (January 1-3)
Many pilgrims visit for the New Year’s first worship. The grounds become crowded with people praying for health and family safety in the new year.
Goshuin Stamp Information
At Nunobiki Kannon, you can receive a goshuin stamp as proof of your pilgrimage.
Types of Goshuin Stamps
- Nunobiki Kannon Goshuin: Features calligraphy of “Sho Kanzeon” or “Nunobiki Kannon” with the temple’s seal
- Pre-written Option: Usually hand-written, but pre-written stamps may be offered during busy times or when staff is absent
Goshuin Reception Location and Hours
- Reception Location: Goshuin office beside the Kannon hall or temple office
- Reception Hours: 9:00-16:00 (varies by season)
- Offering: Around 300-500 yen
Goshuin Stamp Book
An original goshuin stamp book may be available. The beautiful stamp book featuring designs of Nunobiki Kannon’s hall and surrounding nature makes a nice souvenir.
Access Information
Access by Car
From Komoro IC on the Joshin-etsu Expressway
- Travel Time: Approximately 15 minutes
- Distance: Approximately 7 km
- Route: Komoro IC → Prefectural Route 79 → Nunobiki Kannon Parking Area
From Saku South IC on the Chubu-Ohdan Expressway
- Travel Time: Approximately 25 minutes
- Distance: Approximately 12 km
Parking Information
- Free Parking: Approximately 20 spaces available
- From Parking to Temple Gate: Approximately 3 minutes on foot
- Large Buses: Contact required in advance
The parking lot may become congested during autumn foliage season and on festival days, so early arrival is recommended.
Access by Public Transportation
From Misato Station on the JR Koumi Line
- Walking: Approximately 25 minutes (approximately 2 km)
- Taxi: Approximately 5 minutes
From Komoro Station on the Shinano Railway
- Taxi: Approximately 15 minutes
- Local Bus: Komoro City Community Bus “Komoro Ai no Rikun” operates (confirm schedule)
Public transportation options are limited, so check the schedule in advance.
Notes and Etiquette During Pilgrimage
Clothing and Items to Bring
- Comfortable Walking Shoes: Sneakers or other comfortable shoes are recommended, as there are approximately 200 stone steps
- Easy-to-Move Clothing: Clothing that allows freedom of movement is appropriate for climbing and descending stairs
- Season-Appropriate Gear: Bring insect repellent in summer and warm clothing in winter
Visiting Hours
- Viewing Hours: 9:00-16:30 (varies by season)
- Estimated Time: Approximately 40 minutes to 1 hour round trip from parking lot
- Admission Fee: Free (voluntary offering)
Photography Etiquette
- Photography inside the hall is generally prohibited
- Photography of the exterior and scenery is permitted, but be considerate of other pilgrims
- Avoid using tripods during crowded times
Safety Precautions
- Stone steps can be slippery in places, especially during rain or in winter, requiring extra caution
- Avoid dangerous behavior such as leaning out over the observation platform’s railing
- When bringing small children, hold their hands while ascending and descending the stairs
Nearby Tourist Attractions
When visiting Nunobiki Kannon, you can also enjoy nearby tourist attractions.
Komoro Castle Ruins Kaiko Park
A representative tourist destination in Komoro City and a famous cherry blossom site. Located approximately 15 minutes by car from Nunobiki Kannon.
Mount Asama
Known as an active volcano, Mount Asama can be viewed from Nunobiki Kannon. Various tourist attractions are scattered around the Asama foothills.
Takamine Plateau
A high plateau around 2,000 meters elevation, popular as a summer resort and ski area in winter. Approximately 30 minutes by car from Nunobiki Kannon.
Komoro City Zoo
A small zoo located within Kaiko Park, popular with families.
Hot Springs along the Chikumagawa River
Hot spring facilities are scattered along the Chikumagawa River near Nunobiki Kannon. Relaxing in a hot spring after your pilgrimage is recommended.
Nunobiki Kannon Through the Seasons
Spring (March-May)
In spring, the trees along the approach are enveloped in fresh greenery, allowing you to make your pilgrimage in a refreshing atmosphere. During cherry blossom season, the surrounding cherries bloom beautifully.
Summer (June-August)
In summer, the trees’ green becomes deep, allowing you to enjoy forest bathing while visiting. Due to its elevation, it is cooler than the urban area and comfortable as a summer retreat.
Autumn (September-November)
Autumn foliage season is when Nunobiki Kannon is most beautiful. The Japanese maples and other trees around the Kannon hall turn red and yellow, creating a magnificent contrast with the hall projecting from the cliff. Peak viewing is from late October to early November.
Winter (December-February)
In winter, the snow-covered Kannon hall and surrounding mountains create a fantastical landscape. However, stone steps may become icy, requiring careful attention when visiting in winter.
Planning a Pilgrimage to Nunobiki Kannon
Recommended Visiting Periods
- Autumn Foliage Season (late October to early November): Most popular period
- New Leaf Season (May-June): Beautiful greenery and pleasant weather
- Weekday Mornings: For avoiding crowds
Estimated Visit Duration
- Pilgrimage Only: 40 minutes to 1 hour
- Thorough Viewing: 1 to 1.5 hours
- Including Nearby Tourism: Half day to full day
Contact Information
- Temple Name: Shakusounji Temple (Nunobiki Kannon)
- Address: 〒384-0071 2250 Okubo, Komoro City, Nagano Prefecture
- Phone: 0267-22-1234 (Komoro City Tourism Association)
It is recommended to contact in advance for the latest information and special viewing schedules.
Summary
Nunobiki Kannon (Shakusounji Temple) is a historic sacred place in Komoro City, Nagano Prefecture, known for its Kannon hall built on a cliff face and the legend of “A cow leads you to visit Zenkoji Temple.” It offers many attractions including the spectacular viewing platform overlooking the Chikumagawa River, the pilgrimage experience of climbing approximately 200 stone steps, and natural beauty throughout the seasons.
Particularly during autumn foliage season, the surrounding mountains turn color, creating a magnificent landscape harmonizing with the Kannon hall. You can also receive goshuin stamps, making it popular as one of Shinshu’s pilgrimage sites.
Its convenient access—approximately 15 minutes by car from Komoro IC—is also appealing, making it a must-visit spot when in Nagano Prefecture. Why not spend a quiet moment at Nunobiki Kannon, where history, nature, and faith converge?
