Shakazan Hyakusaiji Temple

Shakazan Hyakusaiji

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Hyakusaiji Temple, an ancient temple associated with Prince Shotoku and known for its stunning autumn leaves, is one of the oldest temples in Omi Province.

Historic Sites
Shrines and Temples
World Heritage
flower-viewing

Tourist destination images of Shakazan Hyakusaiji Temple(1)

Tourist destination images of Shakazan Hyakusaiji Temple(2)

Tourist destination images of Shakazan Hyakusaiji Temple(3)

Tourist destination images of Shakazan Hyakusaiji Temple(4)

HighlightsA historic temple traditionally founded by Prince Shotoku.
Houses the principal image, an eleven-faced Kannon known as the "Ueki Kannon," carved from a sacred cedar tree.
Famous for its stunning autumn foliage, particularly beautiful during the fall season.
One of the oldest temples in Omi Province.
Known as one of the "Koto Sanzan" along with Kongo-rinji and Saimyoji Temples.

Basic Information

Address: 323 Hyakusaijicho, Higashi-Omi City, Shiga Prefecture Search for tourist attractions in Shiga

Access: By Train or Bus: • Get off at JR Biwako Line's Omihachiman Station → Transfer to Omi Railway's Yokaichi Station. From there, take a taxi (approx. 10 minutes) or the Chokotto Bus (approx. 30 minutes on the Aihoku Route) to "Hyakusaiji Honbo-mae" stop. "Chokotto Bus Schedule" is here • Get off at JR Biwako Line's Notogawa Station → Take Kokoku Bus's Kakunou Line to "Hyakusaiji Honmachi" and walk for 12 minutes. "Kokoku Bus Schedule" is here By Car: • From the Kyoto-Hanshin area: 10 minutes from Meishin Expressway's Yokaichi IC (cross National Route 307 at Ikenojirishi signal, then 5 minutes) • From the Nagoya area: 5.5km, approx. 8 minutes from Meishin Koto-Sanzan Smart IC (ETC-equipped vehicles only) • From Nagoya, Kuwana, and Yokkaichi areas: 20 minutes after exiting the Ishtar Tunnel on National Route 421 (via Takano Kaido) By Meishin Highway Bus: • From Kyoto Station: "Kyoto Station" → "Kyoto Fukakusa" → "Bodiji" → "Meishin Yokaichi" → "Hyakusaiji" • From Nagoya: "Meitetsu Bus Center" → "Nagoya Station" → "Meishin Ogaki" → "Meishin Taka" → "Hyakusaiji" Show route

Op.Hours: 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM (Reception closes at 4:30 PM)

Cld.Days: Open every day

Fee: 【Adult】(Individual) ¥600 (Group of 30 or more) ¥550 【Junior High School Student】(Individual) ¥300 (Group) ¥250 【Elementary School Student】(Individual & Group) ¥200 【Disabled】(Individual) ¥500

INFO: Parking is free for both buses and cars. [Capacity: Large buses 20, Cars 220]

HP: http://www.hyakusaiji.jp/

Overview

Hyakusaiji Temple is a Tendai Buddhist temple located in Higashi-Omi City, Shiga Prefecture. It is said to have been founded by Prince Shotoku and is known as one of the oldest temples in Omi Province. According to legend, in 606, Prince Shotoku, along with the Korean monk Eiji, visited this area and discovered a magically glowing cedar tree in the mountains. Following the light, they reached the tree and the Prince carved it into an eleven-faced Kannon statue, subsequently building a hall to enshrine it. This marked the beginning of Hyakusaiji Temple. Hyakusaiji has been a center of faith for centuries and is recognized as one of the oldest temples in Omi Province. It's also famous for its breathtaking autumn foliage. During the fall foliage season, the entire mountainside is ablaze with vibrant reds and yellows, creating a breathtaking spectacle. The contrast between the ancient trees and their vivid colors captivates visitors. Hyakusaiji Temple holds significant historical value as a temple associated with Prince Shotoku. Moreover, its renown as a stunning autumn foliage destination allows visitors to appreciate beautiful scenery throughout the year. Visit Hyakusaiji Temple to experience the history of Prince Shotoku and the beauty of nature.