Ishiyama-dera is a Shingon temple on the Seta River in Otsu, Shiga, founded in 747 and built around the outcrop of wollastonite that gives the temple its name. Its main hall and two-storey pagoda are National Treasures, and the principal image, a Nyoirin Kannon, is unveiled only once every 33 years. Murasaki Shikibu is said to have conceived The Tale of Genji while on retreat here, and the hillside grounds carry plum, cherry, iris and maple through the year.

Crowd level

Moderate

Opening hours

Daily 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM

Usual hours — confirm with the official site for holidays + seasonal closures.

Admission

Adult grounds entry; last admission 4:00 PM. The main hall inner sanctuary is a further ¥500 (viewing 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM).

Nearest station

Ishiyamadera Station

Website

ishiyamadera.or.jp

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