At a Glance
- Event: Zenkoji Gokaicho
- Location: Zenkoji Temple
- Dates: April 4th – June 19th 2027
- Duration: 77 Days
- Frequency: Every six to seven years
- Nearest Station: Nagano Station
- Highlights: Buddhist ceremonies, cultural performances, and spring sightseeing
What is the Zenkoji Gokaicho?
Zenkoji temple is home to what is believed to be the first Buddhist statue ever brought to Japan. This statue is so sacred that it remains hidden from public view deep within the temple. Instead, visitors have the chance to worship a replica known as the Maedachi Honzon. However, the replica is also only revealed to the public during approximately once every six to seven years. This rare opportunity to view the Maedachi Honzon is the Gokaicho, making it one of Japan's most important Buddhist events.
During the ceremony, a sacred pillar known as the Eko-bashira is erected in front of the Main Hall and connected to the Maedachi Honzon by the "Rope of Good Fortune." By touching the pillar, worshippers are believed to establish a spiritual connection with the replica and may receive its blessings.
Over the course of the Gokaicho, millions of Japanese tourists and overseas visitors travel to Nagano to take part in this centuries-old tradition, which is why it's one of the largest and most significant religious events in Japan.
When is the Zenkoji Gokaicho?
The next Zenkoji Gokaicho will be held in 2027 from April 4th to June 19th. The event lasts for 77 days and includes daily religious ceremonies, special services, cultural performances, and seasonal events. Visitors can attend any day throughout the festival, though weekends, public holidays, and the opening and closing ceremonies typically attract the largest crowds.
Major Events of the Zenkoji Gokaicho
Throughout the Zenkoji Gokaicho's 77-day duration, visitors can experience a wide range of religious ceremonies, cultural performances, and traditional celebrations. While the official schedule for the 2027 Gokaicho has yet to be announced, the following events have been among the highlights of previous years and offer a glimpse into what you can expect during not only Nagano's biggest festival but one of Japan's most important Buddhist events.
Opening Ceremony (Kaibyaku Daihoyo)
The official start of the Gokaicho, during which the Maedachi Honzon is revealed to worshippers for the first time in seven years.
Mid-Gokaicho Grand Ceremonies
One of the festival's most spectacular and iconic events. Amidst the sounds of ancient Japanese court music, one of the head priests travels from a nearby temple in a traditional palanquin with a procession of approximately 800 people, shielded by striking vermilion umbrellas. This is a sight you don't want to miss!
Shinonoi Giant Lion Dance
One of Nagano's most beloved folk traditions is the Shinonoi Giant Lion dance which features performers carrying giant lion heads weighing up to 60kg accompanied by energetic dance performances all taking place in front of Zenkoji temple's Sanmon Gate.
Nagano Gion Festival
A yearly celebration that takes place on the first weekend in June but will also coincide with the Gokaicho festivities is the Gion Festival. Large festival floats are pulled across town carrying traditional shamisen and flute players and Geisha performers. There is also a stamp rally allowing festival goers the chance to try various locally brewed Japanese sake! It's a lively celebration that goes from sunrise to sunset.
Closing Ceremony (Kechigan Daihoyo)
A solemn and spiritual service that marks the conclusion of the Gokaicho and the return of the Maedachi Honzon to its hidden location.
How to Get to the Zenkoji Gokaicho
Nagano city is easily accessible from multiple major travel hubs across Japan making it an ideal stop in your Japan travel itinerary. When arriving for the Zenkoji Gokaicho festival consider these options:
By Train
Nagano is easily reached via the Hokuriku Shinkansen.
- From Tokyo Station: approximately 80 ~100 minutes
- From Kanazawa Station: approximately 65 minutes
From Nagano Station
After arriving at Nagano Station, visitors can:
- Walk to Zenkoji Temple in approximately 30 minutes
- Take a local bus in approximately 10–15 minutes
- Use a taxi in approximately 10 minutes
Private Charter (Recommended During the Gokaicho)
For a more comfortable and flexible experience during the busy festival period, we offer a private charter service throughout central Japan.
This option is ideal for visitors attending the Gokaicho, as it allows you to:
- Travel directly between your hotel, Zenkoji temple, and other nearby attractions
- Avoid crowded trains and buses during peak festival times
- Adjust your schedule around ceremony times and weather conditions
- Combine the Gokaicho with nearby highlights such as the Snow Monkeys or local sake breweries
Private charters are particularly recommended for families, small groups, and travelers on tight itineraries during the 2027 Gokaicho period.
Where to Stay in Nagano?
Our Best Places to Stay in Nagano guide covers accommodation options throughout Nagano Prefecture. For most visitors attending the 2027 Zenkoji Gokaicho, Nagano City is the best base thanks to its proximity to Zenkoji temple, excellent transport connections, and wide range of accommodation. From the city, it's easy to explore other popular destinations including the snow monkeys, Togakushi, Matsumoto, and the Japanese Alps.
Nagano Tours During the Gokaicho
While the 2027 Zenkoji Gokaicho is reason enough to visit Nagano, the festival also coincides with one of the region's most beautiful seasons, springtime! From cherry blossoms and snow monkeys to alpine landscapes and historic post towns, visitors can easily combine the Gokaicho with some of Central Japan's most memorable experiences. Throughout the festival period, we will operate a range of guided tours departing from Nagano and Matsumoto, making it easy to explore Zenkoji temple and beyond!
Snow Monkeys, Zenko-ji Temple & Sake Tour
Our most popular tour combines two of Nagano's most iconic attractions in a single day. Begin with a guided visit to Zenkoji temple during the Gokaicho, followed by sake tasting and a local lunch before heading to Snow Monkey Park to see Japan's famous snow monkeys in their natural environment. The tour includes transportation, lunch, sake tasting, park admission, and an English-speaking guide.
Best for: First-time visitors, culture lovers, and travelers with limited time.
Best Selling
1-Day Tour: Snow Monkeys, Zenkoji Temple & Sake in Nagano
- Spots:
- NaganoSnow MonkeyHakuba
- Pick-up:
- Nagano CityHakuba
- Drop-off:
- Nagano CityHakuba
Tateyama-Kurobe Alpine Route & Snow Walls Tour
Available during the spring season, this tour takes visitors into the heart of the Japanese Alps via the legendary Tateyama-Kurobe Alpine Route. The route is famous for its towering "Snow Walls," which can reach heights of up to 20 meters in years with heavy snowfall, creating one of Japan's most spectacular seasonal landscapes. Travelling through the mountains by a combination of cable cars, ropeways, and mountain transport, this is one of the country's most unique sightseeing experiences.
Best for: Nature enthusiasts, photographers, and visitors travelling during April and May.
Best Selling
[Spring Only] 1-Day Tour from Nagano: Snow Walls of Tateyama-Kurobe Alpine Route
- Spots:
- NaganoAlpine Route
- Pick-up:
- Nagano City
- Drop-off:
- Nagano City
Nakasendo Trail & Historic Post Towns Tour
Step back in time on a journey through the historic Nakasendo, the mountain highway that once connected Kyoto and Edo (Tokyo). Visiting beautifully preserved post towns and walking sections of the original trail, this tour offers insight into Japan's samurai-era history and rural traditions. The Nakasendo still remains one of Japan's most celebrated walking routes and provides a fascinating contrast to the religious atmosphere of the Gokaicho.
Best for: History enthusiasts, walkers, and cultural travelers.
Popular
1-Day Tour from Nagano and Matsumoto: Step into the Past on the Nakasendo
- Spots:
- NaganoMatsumotoKiso Valley
- Pick-up:
- Nagano CityMatsumoto
- Drop-off:
- Nagano CityMatsumoto
Snow Monkeys & Cherry Blossoms Tour
Spring is one of the most rewarding times to visit Nagano. This seasonal tour combines cherry blossom viewing with a visit to the snow monkeys, allowing guests to enjoy two of Japan's most iconic spring experiences in a single day. During the early weeks of the Gokaicho, cherry blossoms around Zenkoji temple and throughout Nagano are typically in bloom, while newborn monkeys often begin appearing in the park from late April onward.
Best for: Spring visitors, photographers, and families.
Popular
(Spring Only) 1-Day Tour: Snow Monkeys & Cherry Blossoms in Nagano
- Spots:
- NaganoSnow Monkey
- Pick-up:
- Nagano City
- Drop-off:
- Nagano City
Matsumoto Castle & Kamikochi Alpine Valley Tour
Explore two of Nagano's most celebrated destinations on a full-day excursion with pick-ups from Nagano and Matsumoto. Visit the magnificent Matsumoto Castle, one of Japan's few remaining original castles, before travelling into the stunning alpine scenery of Kamikochi. Surrounded by the towering peaks of the Northern Alps, Kamikochi is regarded as one of Japan's premier mountain landscapes and offers easy walking trails suitable for most visitors.
Best for: Scenic travelers, outdoor enthusiasts, and photographers.
Best Selling
1-Day Tour from Nagano and Matsumoto: Kamikochi & Matsumoto Castle
- Spots:
- NaganoMatsumotoKamikochi
- Pick-up:
- Nagano CityMatsumoto
- Drop-off:
- Nagano CityMatsumoto
Snow Monkey Park & Togakushi Shrine Tour
Combine two of Nagano's most iconic destinations on a full-day tour to the famous snow monkeys of Jigokudani and the historic Togakushi Shrine. After visiting the monkey park and enjoying lunch, travel into the mountains to explore one of Japan's most important shrine complexes, known for its towering cedar forests, beautiful walking trails, and rich spiritual heritage.
Offering a contrast to the Buddhist traditions of the Zenkoji Gokaicho, this tour introduces visitors to the sacred landscapes and Shinto traditions that have shaped Nagano for centuries.
Best for: Culture enthusiasts, nature lovers, photographers, and visitors seeking a deeper understanding of Japan's religious traditions.
Small Group
1-Day Tour: Snow Monkey Park & Togakushi Shrine in Nagano
- Spots:
- NaganoSnow MonkeyTogakushi
- Pick-up:
- Nagano City
- Drop-off:
- Nagano City
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Zenkoji Gokaicho?
- The Gokaicho is a special Buddhist ceremony held approximately every six to seven years during which the Maedachi Honzon, a normally hidden Buddhist statue, is displayed to the public. It lasts 77 days and is filled with lively festivities and spiritual ceremonies.
How often is the Gokaicho held?
- Traditionally every six to seven years.
Is there an entrance fee?
- Access to the temple grounds is generally free, though some special areas or exhibitions may require admission.
What is the Eko-bashira?
- The Eko-bashira is the sacred pillar erected in front of the Main Hall. It is connected to the Maedachi Honzon by the Rope of Good Fortune and is one of the central symbols of the Gokaicho.
When is the best time to visit?
- Weekday mornings generally offer the smallest crowds. The opening and closing ceremonies traditionally attract the largest numbers of visitors.
Can non-Buddhists attend?
- Yes. Visitors of all backgrounds are welcome to attend ceremonies, observe traditions, and explore the temple grounds.
How crowded does the Gokaicho get?
- In previous years, over the course of the 3 months period of the festival, approximately 6 million people had came to take part in the celebrations. Expect especially large crowds on weekends, public holidays, and during major ceremonies.