Konan City is located in the southern part of Shiga Prefecture. Though a small town, Konan’s rich heritage and scenic landscapes offer a tranquil escape from the main tourist routes.
Konan City is the home of three Tendai Buddhist sect temples whose main halls have been designated National Treasures. The city was also the site of many key events in Oda Nobunaga’s campaigns in the area during the Warring States period five hundred years ago.
One of Konan’s most remarkable features is the “Konan Sanzan” , a trio of ancient Tendai Buddhist temples. These temples—Chōjū-ji, Jōraku-ji, and Zensui-ji—are renowned for their architectural beauty and spiritual significance. All three are said to have been founded in the eight or ninth centuries, though the current temples were all rebuilt in the fourteenth century due to a series of fires and disasters. The main halls (hondō) of these temples are designated National Treasures, showcasing the exquisite craftsmanship of feudal Japan.
During the Warring States period, warlord Oda Nobunaga put Konan on the national map when he established Ishibe-juku, the 51st post station on the Tōkaidō Road. This post station later became a vital stop for travelers during the Edo period, connecting Kyoto to the eastern provinces. Today, visitors can explore an open-air architectural museum that replicates the traditional buildings of this historic post town.
The temples of Konan also played a large role in Warring States history. Joraku-ji temple served as the battlefield base of Oda Nobunaga’s retainer Sakuma Nobunari from 1568-1570. Oda himself relocated the three story pagoda of Choju-ji to its present location.
Given the city’s connection to Buddhism, a strong tradition of shojin ryori was inevitable. Shojin ryori uses a variety of local ingredients to prepare a meal which both satisfies and purifies the body. Today, you can experience a truly delectable kaiseki shojin ryori meal during a local temple stay.
Settled in a river valley between the Iwane and Ansei mountain ranges, Konan offers ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and fishing. A particularly interesting hike leads from downtown Konan to the ruins of Mikumo castle, which was used as a base by the local Rokkaku forces when Nobunaga attacked the Rokkaku in 1568. This ruin offers incredible views of the surrounding countryside.
For those interested in experiencing Konan’s Buddhist history more deeply, temple homestays are available. If you are interested, please reach out via our contact form!
Whether exploring ancient temples, tracing the bloody history of the sengoku samurai, or enjoying outdoor activities, visitors to Konan City can immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of Konan’s heritage. All it takes is a quick 30 minute train ride from Kyoto to experience world heritage sites without the crowds of the well-trod Golden Route. Konan is easily accessible via the JR Kusatsu Line, with stations such as Ishibe and Kōsei connecting the city to major urban centers.
While there are no commercial links for tours or experiences with instant bookings, visitors who take the time to plan a trip here will be rewarded with an experience away from the crowds.
A 5-day, 4-night private tour to experience the best of cuisine and craftsmanship in the Uetsu area of Japan. Observe and experience techniques for making outstanding kitchenware of the master craftsmen of Tsubame-Sanjo and enjoy cooking and dining experiences with chefs of Tsuruoka City, a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy.
A four-day, three-night tour to experience the highlights of the Uetsu region of Japan, with a special focus on nature and its connections with the local spiritual and culinary cultures.
From Niigata to Yamagata, experience the charm and beauty of traditions of craftsmanship in the Uetsu region of Japan. Experience Japan’s “monozukuri” tradition for yourself while learning about the history and charm of creation in each area.
Drift through the Geibikei gorge, one of the most beautiful places in Japan, in a boat propelled by an oarsman maneuvering it with a single long pole. You may even get the chance to enjoy an “oarsman experience” in which you can try propelling the boat yourself!
Experience an indispensable element of Japanese holidays: mochi-pounding! Using a traditional mallet and mortar, pound mochi rice into this staple chewy morsel, and then enjoy the result as part of a delicious local dish.
At old-fashioned sweets shop Kurikomaya in the Muikamachi neighborhood of Kurihara City, learn from the shop owner how to make taiyaki sweets, then try your hand at making one yourself.
The Tohoku Kizuna Festival, a collaboration event combining the Tohoku region’s 6 most famous summer matsuri into one giant celebration!
There simply isn’t a view quite like this anywhere else in the country. Matsushima is more than simply a beautiful bay filled with stunning rock formations. The mainland town is also home to centuries of Buddhist culture, samurai history, and incredible seafood, making it a day trip from Sendai you won’t want to miss.
Nakajimadai is a beautiful beech forest and wetland area featuring easy nature trails. It is located at the base of Mount Chokai in Akita.
Interact with the abundant nature of the Okitama region- experience a hot air balloon ride, canoe in picturesque gorges and enjoy a night walking tour through the traditional Akayu onsen district.
Kayak through the submerged forests of Yamagata in the dams of Iide high up in mountains during the sunrise in spring time.
Explore nature’s wonders in the Mogami region of northeastern Japan on this 2-day, 1-night tour, including a riverboat cruise and trekking to an ancient forest.
