Shinano Hiei Kōjōin

Shinano Hiei Kōjōin is a Buddhist temple with multiple traditional structures set in the mountains of Achi, including a main hall and dedicated meditation space. The grounds are marked by a mountain gate that serves as the entrance to the sacred area.

The temple belongs to the Tendai sect of Buddhism, which has shaped Japanese religious practices since the early medieval period. This affiliation demonstrates the long continuity of this Buddhist tradition in the area.

The temple displays statues and artistic works dedicated to Dengyō Daishi that visitors can observe throughout the grounds. These pieces reflect long-standing devotional practices connected to mountain Buddhism in the region.

The temple sits in the mountains and requires some walking to reach, so visitors should plan for appropriate footwear and travel time. The setting is quiet and removed from busy areas, allowing for a focused experience.

The temple blends architectural elements of mountain Buddhism in distinctive ways with traditional Japanese design forms. This fusion is visible in how the buildings sit naturally within the hillside landscape.