Ishiyama-dera Temple is a venerated temple complex of the Shingon Buddhism school. It’s one of 33 Buddhist temples that make up the famed Saigoku Kannon Pilgrimage. Visit Ishiyama-dera Temple to admire magnificent pagodas, prayer halls and shrines in a picturesque hillside setting. Discover the temple’s connections with Japanese art and literature.
The Japanese Buddhist monk Rōben founded the temple in the 740s upon the request of the Emperor Shōmu. It honors Kannon, the bodhisattva of mercy and compassion, and has for a long time attracted aristocrats, pilgrims and royalty. The name translates to Stone Mountain Temple and is a reference to the unusual wollastonite on which it stands. Instances of the exposed and sacred rock are visible throughout the complex.
Paths lined with pagodas and stone stairways lead to dozens of elegant temple buildings. The Hondō main temple is a national treasure and the oldest wooden building in the Shiga prefecture. Look for the room dedicated to Murasaki Shikibu, the author of the acclaimed Japanese novel The Tale of Genji. Legend states that Shikibu was inspired by a full moon while staying at the temple.
Stroll alongside pilgrims, watch traditional Buddhist practices and spot other significant landmarks such as the 800-year-old tahōtō or treasure tower. Seasonally blooming flowers add natural beauty to the courtyards. Marvel at the vivid colors of azaleas, camellias, cherry blossoms and peonies.
A history exhibition takes place at the temple’s Hōjōden museum in spring and fall. Learn about the temple’s ancient past and its importance to the Saigoku Kannon Pilgrimage. Delve deeper into the story of novelist Murasaki Shikibu. The temple also inspired some of The Eight Views of Ōmi paintings and woodblock prints by the artists Harunobu and Hiroshige.
Ishiyama-dera Temple is open daily and has an admission fee. Pay an additional fee to enter the museum. Located in the Ishiyamadera district of southern Otsu, the temple is a 10-minute walk from Ishiyamadera station. If you drive, find parking just outside the main entrance.
