Shinano Kokubunji Temple, built by imperial decree of Emperor Shomu in the Nara period. Constructed as the provincial temple (kokubunji) of Shinano Province following the 741 (Tempyo 13) edict ordering the establishment of kokubunji throughout Japan, the three-story pagoda was built in the Muromachi period and designated a National Important Cultural Property; its well-proportioned, beautiful silh…

In 741 (Tenpyo 13), Emperor Shomu issued an edict ordering the establishment of provincial temples throughout Japan, and Shinano Kokubunji was built in response. The original complex is said to have featured a magnificent seven-story pagoda, but much of it was destroyed by fire during the late Heian…