- Experience
- Shiga
Nagarasan Onjo-ji Temple (Mii-dera Temple)
One of Shiga's the most famous temples and a great viewing spot for cherry blossoms
Nagarasan Onjo-ji Temple (Mii-dera Temple) in Otsu City, Shiga Prefecture, is the head temple of Tendaijimon Buddhist sect. It is also known as the "Temple of the Phoenix" for its tenacity in overcoming various hardships in its over 1,200-year history, such as fire attacks during war. The temple houses numerous national treasures and cultural properties, and the spectacular view of Lake Biwa from the observation deck, cherry blossoms and autumn leaves are must-see sights.
Achieve mental and physical wellness through training
Mii-dera Temple offers a wide range of training menus for visitors. The yamabushi mountain ascetics training is especially popular; it is an experience course unique to Mii-dera Temple, the head temple of Shugendo (Japanese mountain asceticism incorporating Shinto and Buddhist concepts), which conducts ascetic practices of integrating with nature. Participants wear the same clothing as yamabushi monks and hike around Mount Nagara for about three hours of self-reflection. A priest provides guidance on Shugendo such as the mindset of monks and how to dress. The trail is easy to walk and safe for beginners, with no difficult areas. There are also courses such as zazen meditation and shakyo sutra copying meditation, which are suitable for participants of all ages.
Location
| Name | Nagarasan Onjo-ji Temple (Mii-dera Temple) |
|---|---|
| Website | https://en.biwako-visitors.jp/spot/detail/84 |
| Address | 246 Onjo-ji-cho, Otsu-shi, Shiga |
| Access | Approximately 10 minutes' walk from Miidera Station on the Keihan Railway Ishiyama-Sakamoto Line |
| Inquiries | TEL: 077-522-2238 |