Chōkoku-ji, Buddhist temple in Matsushiro district, Nagano, Japan.
Chōkoku-ji is a Buddhist temple in Matsushiro distinguished by its raised roof structure and two mythical guardian sculptures that resemble fish with animal heads. The architectural design and protective figures create a visually distinctive religious space.
The temple was established in 1547 and moved to Matsushiro when the Sanada clan relocated their seat of power. A mortuary chapel with painted ceilings was added in 1660, marking the family's enduring connection to the site.
The temple is closely linked to the Sanada clan, whose members are honored here and shaped the building's purpose. Visitors can observe ceiling paintings of exceptional craftsmanship that reflect the spiritual life of the family.
To reach the temple, take a bus from JR Nagano Station for around 30 minutes to Matsushiro, then walk the short distance on foot to the entrance. The walking portion takes about 15 minutes from the bus stop.
The temple cemetery holds the graves of ten successive generations of the Sanada clan, telling a long story of family continuity at this location. This collection demonstrates how important the site became as a place for remembering multiple generations of the same family.
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