Kinshoji Temple

Kon Sho Ji

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Kinshoji Temple is a historically significant temple, said to have been founded by Roben at the behest of Emperor Shomu. Nestled deep in the mountains, it's a peaceful place where you can connect with nature and find serenity.

Historic Sites
Shrines and Temples
National Treasure
Cultural Assets

HighlightsA historically significant temple, founded by Roben at the behest of Emperor Shomu
Nestled deep in the mountains, offering serenity and a connection with nature
A tranquil space surrounded by abundant nature
Numerous valuable cultural assets, including the Kobosaka Magai Butsu cliff-face Buddha statues (a national historical site), are preserved on the grounds
The Shaka Nyorai statue enshrined in the main hall, dating from the Heian period, offers a tangible connection to the temple's history and culture

Basic Information

Address: 1394 Arahari, Ritto City, Shiga Prefecture Search for tourist attractions in Shiga

Access: Take a bus (Teisan Konan Kotsu) from Kusatsu Station on the JR Biwako Line (Tokaido Main Line) or JR Kusatsu Line to the "Nakamura" bus stop. A 20-minute taxi ride from the adjacent taxi stand is then required. Alternatively, take the Konzemeguri-chan bus from Tehara Station on the JR Kusatsu Line (operates only on Saturdays and holidays during the spring and autumn climbing seasons). Get off at the "Kinshoji" bus stop. Approximately a 30-minute drive from the栗東 (Ritto) IC on the Meishin Expressway. Show route

Op.Hours: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (Winter: December - March, 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM)

Cld.Days: No days off

Fee: ¥500 per adult (¥450 per adult for groups of 20 or more)

INFO: The mountain path is steep, so please wear comfortable walking shoes.

HP: https://www.kon-shoji.or.jp/

Overview

Kinshoji Temple is a Tendai Buddhist temple located in Arahari, Ritto City, Shiga Prefecture. Its mountain name is Kinshozan, and its principal image is Shaka Nyorai (the historical Buddha). Traditionally founded by Roben in the Nara period, it was formerly known as Daibodaiji Temple and flourished as a major center of Buddhism in the Lake Biwa region. Kinshoji Temple is situated within Kinshozan mountain, offering a tranquil space surrounded by abundant nature. The temple grounds preserve numerous valuable cultural assets, including the Kobosaka Magai Butsu cliff-face Buddha statues, believed to be from the early Heian period (a designated national historical site). In particular, the Shaka Nyorai statue enshrined in the main hall, dating from the Heian period, offers a tangible connection to the temple's history and culture. The grounds also boast many venerable trees, including thousand-year-old cedar and maple trees, providing stunning seasonal views. Kinshoji Temple is highly recommended for those seeking a peaceful escape surrounded by nature and history, offering the perfect setting for rejuvenation.

Kinshoji Temple

Highlights

Basic Information

Overview

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