Sekitoji Temple

Ishidoji

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Sekitoji Temple boasts Japan's oldest and largest stone three-storied pagoda, surrounded by tens of thousands of stone pagodas and Buddhist statues. The serene atmosphere of these stone structures creates a mystical ambiance.

Historic Sites
Shrines and Temples
National Treasure

HighlightsJapan's oldest and largest stone three-storied pagoda, the Asoka Pagoda
A breathtaking view of tens of thousands of stone pagodas and Buddhist statues
A historic temple traditionally founded by Prince Shotoku
Buddhist relic pagodas said to have been brought from Tang Dynasty China during the Heian period
A mystical atmosphere in a tranquil setting

Basic Information

Address: 860 Sekitocho, Higashi-Omi City, Shiga Prefecture, Japan Search for tourist attractions in Shiga

Access: Take the JR Tokaido Main Line (Biwa Lake Line) and Omi Railway Yokaichi Line (Manyo Akane Line) to Omihachiman Station. From there, take the Omi Railway bus bound for Kitabata-guchi and get off at Sakuragawa Station. Transfer to the Hino Town bus bound for Hara and get off at Sekito-guchi stop. It's a 15-minute walk from the bus stop. Show route

Op.Hours: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (9:00 AM to 6:00 PM from May to October)

Cld.Days: No holidays

Fee: Adults: ¥400, Children: ¥100

INFO: Free parking available (20 regular cars, 10 large vehicles)

Overview

Sekitoji Temple, located in Higashi-Omi City, Shiga Prefecture, is a Tendai Buddhist temple with a long history, traditionally founded by Prince Shotoku. The temple grounds are awe-inspiring, filled with tens of thousands of stone pagodas and Buddhist statues. The stone three-storied pagoda, known as the Asoka Pagoda, is the oldest and largest of its kind in Japan, commanding attention with its sheer presence. Built in the early Nara period by immigrants from the Korean Peninsula, its style is distinctly different from other pre-medieval stone pagodas found throughout Japan. Legend also connects this pagoda to the relics of Buddha, with a story claiming two of the three thousand pagodas scattered across the world by King Asoka of India were brought to Japan by a monk who had studied in Tang Dynasty China during the Heian period. Sekitoji Temple exudes a mystical atmosphere in its tranquil setting, deeply moving those who visit. Immerse yourself in the serene environment and experience its rich history and mystery.

Sekitoji Temple

Highlights

Basic Information

Overview

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