

Myozenji / Shirakawa-go
Myozenji Temple, located in the Gassho-Zukuri Village of Shirakawa-go, is a Jodo Shinshu temple with a history of over 250 years. The temple is the center of religious activity in Shirakawa-go, and is also one of the most important structures in the area that still carries the culture and traditions of the region. Myozenji Temple was built in the late 18th century and prospered as a center of local religion, supported by the residents of that time. The main hall in particular, built in the gassho-zukuri style of roofing, is extremely rare and is known as a temple architecture unique to Shirakawa-go. This architectural style is robust enough to withstand deep snowy winters and blends in beautifully with the surrounding landscape. In addition to the main hall, the temple grounds include a kori (living quarters for priests), a bell tower gate, and a sutra library. The Kori (storehouse) was built in the Edo period and features a five-story thatched roof. The bell tower gate is a magnificent wooden structure with an imposing style that welcomes visitors. The Sutra Repository contains valuable Buddhist scriptures, conveying the depth of the temple's religious beliefs. One of the charms of Myozenji Temple is its seasonal scenery, with cherry blossoms in full bloom in the spring and autumn leaves beautifully decorating the temple grounds in the fall. This temple, which has lived with the history of Shirakawa-go, is still carefully preserved as a place that offers tranquility and peace of mind to visitors.