Chokoku-ji Temple is located away from the main area of attractions in Matsushiro but for those curious about Japanese temples, Chokoku-ji might be of interest. The main temple is quite distinctive, with a raised portion of the roof bearing the Sanada clan’s ‘rokumonsen’ emblem and a large pair of ‘shachi’ or ‘shachikoko’ (mythical fish with the head of a tiger) protecting the structure from fire.

Behind the main temple, visitors will find the black mausoleum of Sanada Nobukyuki, first lord of the Sanada clan. The austere black is offset by elaborate gold-leaf design, reminiscent of the famous temples of Nikko.

A little tricky to navigate your way to but a good destination to seek-out for those renting bicycles and planning to spend the day in Matsushiro.