Kaizen-ji Temple

Kai Zenkoji Temple is a temple founded by Lord Takeda Shingen. One of the temple's specialties is the Crying Dragon painted on the ceiling of the main hall by the Edo period artist, Kisa Itto. When you clap your hands, the multiple echoes create the illusion of a real dragon crying. This famous spot is loved by tourists from both inside and outside the prefecture. When visiting the temple, be sure to witness the famous Crying Dragon, which is also known as the best in Japan.

Yamanashi Prefecture, where Kai Zenkoji Temple is located, is also famous as a fruit-producing region, where you can taste fresh fruit by fruit picking or at direct sales outlets. If you have some spare time before or after visiting Kai Zenkoji Temple, be sure to enjoy fruit picking at a direct sales outlet or farm. There are also several fruit picking spots along the approach to Zenkoji Temple, so feel free to stop by and enjoy.

If you visit Kai Zenkoji Temple, be sure to take part in the "okaidan-meguri" pilgrimage. This unique experience, exclusive to Kai Zenkoji, involves searching for the "Gokuraku no Ojou" lock that is said to connect the main deity and the visitors while feeling one's way along the walls in complete darkness. The pilgrimage takes place in pitch darkness, allowing you to experience a strange sensation where your senses are sharpened. Enjoy this experience, which is also said to allow you to enter the world of Buddha, during your visit to the temple.

Within the grounds of Kai Zenkoji Temple, there is a treasure museum that exhibits numerous treasures year-round. The museum has been in operation since 1982, regularly changing its exhibits. Among the valuable treasures on display are Takeda Shingen's red-seal letters and a sacred Kannon statue dedicated by Tokugawa Iemitsu. There is also a resting area on the first floor, so be sure to use it when you're tired from your travels. Admission fees are 500 yen for adults and 250 yen for children.

Kai Zenkoji Temple is a must-see spot for history fans associated with Takeda Shingen. It was founded in 1558 when Takeda Shingen, fearing the burning down of Shinano Zenkoji Temple, transferred the main statue of Buddha, Zenkoji Nyorai, and other temple treasures. There are also hot spring resorts said to have been loved by Takeda Shingen and shrines that enshrine Takeda Shingen as a deity in the surrounding area, so it's a good idea to stop by Kai Zenkoji Temple along with them.