Onjō-ji (Mii-dera) Temple

Mii-dera (Onjo-ji) is the head temple of the Tendai Jimon sect, restored as a Tendai branch temple in the Heian period. Over its 1,200+ years of history, it endured many hardships, including conflicts with Enryakuji on Mt. Hiei and the confiscation of its lands by Toyotomi Hideyoshi, yet it was repeatedly rebuilt and revived—earning it the nickname “the Phoenix Temple.” Buildings such as the Kondo (Main Hall) are designated as National Treasures or Important Cultural Properties, and the temple bell known as “Mii no Bansho” (Evening Bell of Mii) is also one of Japan’s Three Famous Bells. In addition, the Cultural Treasure Repository houses and exhibits many sacred objects, including 39 panels of fusuma paintings by Kano Mitsunobu, considered masterpieces of Momoyama-period painting, along with Buddhist statues, paintings, and ritual implements. Mii-dera also offers rare experiences unique to the temple, such as a yamabushi (mountain ascetic) experience that follows an actual shugendo route. Overnight stays are also possible at Sonbo and Myogon-in. In spring, various cherry blossoms are illuminated at night, making it one of Shiga’s well-known hanami (flower-viewing) spots. The nearest stations are Keihan Mii-dera Station or Bessho Station, about a 10–12 minute walk away.