Located right near Hikone Castle, Tennoji Temple boasts impressive Five Hundred Rakan statues! Gazing at these unique Rakan statues brings a sense of peace. Other highlights include the memorial stupa of Ii Naosuke and his palanquin carrying mat.
Historic Sites
Shrines and Temples
Highlights
Be soothed by the gentle expressions of the Five Hundred Rakan statues.
Explore the historical sites related to Ii Naosuke.
15-minute walk from Hikone Station on the JR Tokaido Line (Biwa Lake Line), or a 3-minute bus ride from the same station to the Tennoji-guchi stop.
5-minute drive from Hikone IC on the Meishin Expressway. Show route
Op.Hours
9:00 AM to 4:30 PM
Cld.Days
Open every day
Fee
¥400 for adults, ¥200 for children (elementary and junior high school students)
INFO
Parking is free.
While you are free to wander the temple grounds, there is an admission fee for the Rakan-do hall.
Tennoji Temple is a Soto Zen Buddhist temple in Hikone City, Shiga Prefecture, known for its connection to the Ii family. Situated near Hikone Castle, it's enveloped in a tranquil and peaceful atmosphere.
The highlight of Tennoji Temple is undoubtedly the Five Hundred Rakan statues, created in the first half of the 19th century. The Rakan-do hall houses 499 individual statues, each with a unique and expressive face. From compassionate smiles to expressions of anger and contemplation, the diverse range of emotions displayed will captivate you. Viewing these Rakan statues evokes a strange and wonderful sensation, as if they were speaking directly to you.
Beyond the Rakan statues, Tennoji Temple offers other attractions. The memorial stupa of Ii Naosuke is a valuable historical site that reflects the history of the Ii family. The temple also possesses the palanquin carrying mat used when Ii Naosuke was assassinated, making it a must-see for history buffs.
Tennoji Temple offers a tranquil setting where you can relax and spend time contemplating the Rakan statues and the weight of history. Be sure to visit when sightseeing at Hikone Castle.