The octagonal pagoda is the only one of its kind in Japan built entirely of wood.
The pagoda is officially recognized as a National Treasure of Japan.
The structure features a unique design where the second and third stories are octagonal, while the base layer is a square-shaped mokoshi.
Dendrochronology dating of the wood confirms construction occurred in the late 13th century.
The temple was historically associated with the Hojo clan, who ruled during the Kamakura period.
The site includes a cemetery containing the grave of Hojo Yoshimasa.
Anrakuji Temple in the Bessho Onsen area of Ueda, Nagano, is home to Japan’s only remaining octagonal wooden pagoda. This three-story structure, designated a National Treasure, is built in the Zen-style (zenshu-yo) and dates back to the Kamakura period. While it appears to have four stories, the lowest level is a mokoshi, a skirt-like roof structure that provides structural support and aesthetic balance. The temple belongs to the Soto Zen sect and is situated on a hillside surrounded by forest. It serves as a historical repository for artifacts reflecting the influence of Zen Buddhism in rural medieval Japan.
The lower gravel path looking upward toward the pagoda, which frames the structure against the dense forest backdrop.
Wear slip-on shoes, as you will need to remove them if entering any temple buildings.
Bring a camera with a wide-angle lens to capture the full verticality of the pagoda from the lower hillside path.
Explore the surrounding Bessho Onsen village after your visit to experience the historic thermal spring town.
Do not attempt to climb the hillside path in inclement weather, as the stone steps become slippery.
Maintain silence, remove footwear before stepping onto wooden temple floors, and do not photograph restricted interior religious icons.
