The Ganshoin Temple in Obuse is one with a long history. The most famous item of the temple is a painting made in 1848. Inside the temple you will find the last masterpiece of famous painter Hokusai which he painted at 89 years old. The painting is of a Phoenix and is on the ceiling of the temple. No matter where you stand the phoenix glares directly into your eyes. The name of the painting is ‘The Phoenix Staring in Eight Directions’.

In the temple garden is a pond which, in the summer months, is filled with frogs ribbitting away. This pond is said to have inspired famous haiku master Issa into making one of his most known poems. The temple is best-enjoyed with visits to the nearby Hokusai-kan Museum and Takai Kozan Memorial Museum.