Buddhists believe that we must subjugate and ultimately rid ourselves of worldly desires in order to see the true nature of existence.  In order to guide and support us in that goal, qualified monks perform ‘Goma’ Prayer or ‘Fire Ceremony’ in which wooden prayer sticks are burned in a consecrated flame in an act that is believed to be spiritually and psychologically cleansing for participants.

— Where is Zenkoji Temple?

— What Happens at the Goma Fire Ceremony?

— Partake in the Fire Ceremony on a Tour

For those visiting Zenkoji, this is a unique chance to take part in a ritual that has been carried on for centuries inside the temple grounds.

WHERE IS ZENKOJI TEMPLE?

Located only a 30 minute / 2 km walk from Nagano Station, Zenkoji lies at the northern edge of Nagano City close to the mountains which surround the area. The cultural heart of Nagano City, the area surrounding the main temple also includes many smaller temples, gift shops, restaurants, and more, all along the beautiful avenues which make up this traditional section of Nagano City. One of the easiest ways to reach Zenkoji from Nagano Station is simply to walk – at a normal pace it will take less than 30 minutes, and serve as a great way to see the city up close while heading to your destination. Simply head north along the road known as ‘Chuo-Dori’ and before long Zenkoji will appear at the end of this long street. Buses are also available from the station, leaving from the north side. From the ‘Zenkoji Daimon’ bus stop, it is only a 10 minute walk to the main hall. The temple is also accessible by using Nagano City’s Nagaden Line subway. From Nagano Station, you need only ride for 5 minutes to reach ‘Zenkoji-Shita’ Station, from where it is a further 5-10 minute walk to the temple.

WHAT HAPPENS AT THE GOMA FIRE CEREMONY?

Conducted within the peaceful and reflective Daikanjin compound of Zenko-ji Temple, participants in ‘goma’ prayer will be led and instructed by a resident monk. First, you will enter the complex and have time to write your prayer on a thin wooden rectangle. This can be in any language you prefer, not just Japanese! Following that, some of the monks will begin chanting and beating on a drum, setting the atmosphere and preparing for the ritual to begin.

Each participant will then have a chance to place their prayer or wish on the fire, before bowing to the statue of the Boddhisatva who presides over the temple. The smoke from the burning wood will ascend to the statue, and your prayer will be thus conveyed as the fire grows ever larger. The burning of prayers in the sacred flame imbues the experience with a deep spirituality and is often found to rid participants of their immediate, worldly concerns. Whether you are a practicing Buddhist or seeking a memorable and meaningful experience while in Japan, ‘goma’ prayer will leave a deep and lasting impression on you.

PARTAKE IN THE FIRE CEREMONY ON A TOUR

Fortunately for those looking to try this experience for themselves, we have two tours which include participation in the goma fire ceremony. With your guide by your side, you won’t have any confusions or difficulties as you go through the ritual and can instead focusing on meditation.

1 Day Tour

Half-Day Tea Ceremony and Zenkoji Experience Tour
Period	All Year Round
Time	12:15-16:30
Meeting Place	Nagano Station
Adult Rate	¥14,500
Child Rate	¥9,900

Zenkoji has a lot to offer, and on this fun half day tour your guide will lead you right into the heart of its history and traditions. Including a tea ceremony experience, sake tasting, and of course the goma fire ceremony, you can enjoy Japan’s unique culture in only a short amount of time. Click the banner above for more details!

2 Day Tour

Tea Ceremony and Zenkoji Experience Tour with ‘Shukubo’ Stay
Period	All Year Round
Time	12:15-16:30
Meeting Place	Nagano Station
Adult Rate	¥33,800
Child Rate	¥26,800

For those who really want to get to know Zenkoji, this tour with an included overnight stay at a shukubo, or pilgrims inn, is ideal. With a focus on Zenkoji and its surroundings, you will come away with a new appreciation for the sights, sounds, and flavors of this centuries old temple. The activities on the first day will be the same as the above half-day tour, but when everyone else is going home you will instead be checking in to your room at the shukubo! Book now to secure your room for the night.