Konan City

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.

Buddhism and Budo: Historical Significance

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.

Konan Sanzan

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.

Samurai Connections

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.

Cuisine

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.

Nature and Artifice

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.

Friendly Locals

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!

Access to Konan City

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.

info@ds-k.site

Elsewhere in Niigata Prefecture

Nagaoka City

Learn about Nagaoka, the second largest city in Niigata, home to fermented foods, sake, koi fish, and one of the best fireworks festivals in all Japan.

Southern Tohoku and Niigata Adventure Tour

Explore Niigata, Fukushima, and Yamagata on this 4-day, 3-night private adventure tour. Explore Niigata city’s history and sake, hike through the stunning natural onsen landscapes of Fukushima, and embrace your inner samurai in Yamagata: this tour is for adventurous spirits looking for authentic experiences off the beaten path.

Beyond the Sushi Bar: The foundations and future of Japanese cuisine Private Tour

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. 　

Other prefectures

Ocean Horseback Riding Experience at Japan’s Scenic “Oku-Matsushima” Beach

Oku-Matsushima, a scenic spot rivaling Matsushima in both beauty and the freshest seafood, offers seaside horseback riding (including underwater riding during summer only).

Taiyaki Workshop in Kurihara

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.

Kurikoma Festival Float Making Experience

This hands-on experience offers the rare opportunity to help construct the floats which are paraded up and down the streets during the summer Kurikoma Festival.

Staying at Yuzu no Azemichi Amago no Kaeru

Spend time in a space of extraordinary freedom, surrounded by tranquil countryside views in a nostalgic old Japanese-style house.

Yagyu Shingan-ryu Martial Arts Experience

Observe the sophisticated techniques of Yagyu Shingan-ryu sword style in action on the Mori Butai Stage at the Tome City Dento Geino Densho-kan, then try out some of the techniques for yourself!

Wakayanagi Jiori Textile Factory Tour

In the Meiji (1868–1912) and Taisho (1912–1926) periods, the Wakayanagi area of Kurihara flourished thanks to the production of Wakayanagi jiori, a traditional cotton textile. Learn about the Wakayanagi jiori production process and the special characteristics of the Y-type loom, about dedication to craftsmanship and techniques passed down through generations, from third-generation owner Kojun Chiba.