TOC
Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Kitamuki Kannon is a Kannon hall located near the center of Bessho Onsen in Ueda City, Nagano Prefecture, and is a temple and shrine that attracts worshippers with Kannon Bodhisattva as its principal image. As the name "Kitamuki" suggests, the principal image faces north, and the custom of "double pilgrimage" has been passed down since ancient times, paired with south-facing Zenkoji Temple (Nagano City). Located in the temple town of Bessho Onsen, many people visit the temple in addition to sightseeing at the hot springs, and the changing seasonal scenery and the charm of the approach to the temple are also attractive.
Highlights
- Main Hall and Worship Etiquette: Pilgrimages are made by worshiping the principal image of the temple, which faces north, and then going to Kitamuki Kannon Temple, followed by Zenkoji Temple. The atmosphere inside the hall is calm, and you can receive amulets and goshuin stamps (please note the opening and closing times of the gift shop).
- The atmosphere of the approach to the shrine: The approach to the shrine, lined with stone steps in front of the gate, souvenir shops, and teahouses, is perfect for a stroll. The seasonal flowers and autumn leaves are beautiful, and there are many photo spots.
- Seasonal scenery: The fresh greenery of spring, the flowers of early summer, and the autumn leaves are particularly beautiful, and on some days you can see the mountains in the background. In winter, the combination of the snowy scenery and hot springs is very picturesque.
- Combined worship with nearby temples and shrines: There are many historic temples around Bessho Onsen, such as Anraku-ji Temple (with its national treasure octagonal three-story pagoda) and Joraku-ji Temple, so visiting them together will be even more fulfilling.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Train: Take the Ueda Electric Railway Bessho Line from Ueda Station (JR and Hokuriku Shinkansen stops) and get off at Bessho Onsen Station. From Bessho Onsen Station, it's about a 10-15 minute walk to Kitamuki Kannon (there are slopes and stone steps).
- By car: Approximately 20-40 minutes via national and prefectural roads from the Joshinetsu Expressway, Ueda-Sugadaira IC, etc. (depending on the starting point and traffic conditions). There are paid parking lots and parking lots at inns around Bessho Onsen, but they can fill up during the tourist season, so we recommend arriving early.
- Buses and sightseeing tours: Seasonal tourist buses and local buses departing from Ueda Station may be available. Please check the timetable and operating status in advance.
- Note: Ueda Station is easily accessible from Tokyo via the Hokuriku Shinkansen (approximately 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the train), making it an easy area to visit on a day trip by car or train.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Visiting Kitamuki Kannon only: 20 to 40 minutes (including visiting the main hall, receiving a temple stamp, and strolling along the approach to the temple).
- If you visit Kitamuki Kannon and several temples around Bessho Onsen: Approximately 2 to 3 hours.
- If you want to stay longer, including hot spring bathing and meals: half a day to a full day.
Nearby spots
- Bessho Onsen: A charming hot spring town where you can enjoy outdoor baths, foot baths, and bathing at inns.
- Anrakuji Temple: It is home to historical buildings such as the national treasure octagonal three-story pagoda, and pilgrimages are possible within walking distance.
- Ancient temples such as Jorakuji Temple: The Bessho Onsen area is dotted with several temples and shrines.
- Ueda Castle and Sanada Shrine (Ueda City): Accessible by car or train, this is a place with plenty to see for history buffs.
- Zenkoji Temple, Nagano: As a paired temple with Kitamuki Kannon, many visitors make the "double pilgrimage" to both temples, and some even visit them together (please note travel time).
Things to be aware of (crowding, etiquette, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Crowds: It gets crowded during the autumn foliage season, Golden Week, the New Year holidays, and New Year's visits. You may have to wait to get a goshuin stamp or to get a shrine seal.
- Clothing and footwear: Please wear comfortable shoes as there are stone steps and slopes on the approach to the shrine. Be careful as it can be slippery in rainy weather and winter.
- Photography inside the hall: Photography may be restricted inside the main hall. Please follow the signs and instructions of the staff.
- Manners: Please observe the proper etiquette for worship (remain quiet, follow the rules for incense and offerings of lanterns, etc.) and be considerate of other worshippers and local residents.
- Prepare cash: Small souvenir shops and gift shops may only accept cash, so it's a good idea to carry a small amount of cash.
- Pets: Restrictions and places where pets are allowed to visit vary. Please check in advance if you are bringing pets and be sure to observe proper etiquette.
- Check for the latest information: Opening hours, events, and transportation schedules are subject to change. Please check official information or the tourist information center for the latest information before visiting.
