Built in 1750, this grand wooden gate marks the entrance to Zenkoji Temple and symbolizes the transition from the everyday world into sacred space. For a small fee, you can enter and climb to the second story, where you’ll find Buddhist statues, calligraphy panels listing the names of past temple supporters, and a balcony with a nice view of Nagano city.

Note: A separate ticket is required to enter, unless you have the combined ticket, which includes access to all four major locations within the Zenkoji Temple grounds:

• Main Hall + Okaidan Meguri

• Sanmon Gate

• Sutra House (Kyōzō)

• Zenkoji History Museum (Nihon-chūreiden)