Miidera Temple

Temple

Prefecture

Shiga

Type

Temple

N/A

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Train Access

About This Destination

Perched on the slopes of Mount Hiei overlooking the sapphire waters of Lake Biwa, Miidera Temple has stood as a spiritual sanctuary for over 1,300 years. The sprawling complex encompasses over 100 buildings including the magnificent Kondo main hall, housing a secret Buddha revealed only once every 33 years. The temple's evening bell, one of Japan's most famous, has inspired countless poems while spring transforms the grounds into a tunnel of over 1,500 cherry trees.

Location

Prefecture: Shiga

Address: Shiga, Japan

Nearest Station: Miidera

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Visitor Information

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get to Miidera Temple?

Take the Keihan Ishiyama-Sakamoto Line to Miidera Station, then walk about 10 minutes. From Kyoto it is roughly 25 minutes via Hamaotsu.

What is Miidera Temple known for?

Also called Onjo-ji, it is the head temple of the Tendai Jimon sect, founded in the 7th century, and was historically counted among Japan's Four Great Temples. Its "Evening Bell of Mii" is one of Japan's three famous bells, tied to the legend of Benkei dragging it away, and the Kondo main hall (1599) is a national treasure.

What are the admission fee and hours, and when is the best time to visit?

Admission is ¥600 and the temple is open 8:00 to 17:00. Spring is the best time, when the cherry blossoms are lit up in the evenings; you can also ring the famous bell yourself for ¥800.