Shohoji (Iwamadera)

Shoho-ji Temple (Iwama-ji) in Otsu City, Shiga Prefecture is located on the mountainside of Mt. Iwama. The surrounding area is rich in nature, and especially during the autumn foliage season, beautiful scenery spreads out. It is said to have been founded in the Heian period and has many cultural assets. There are national treasures such as the "Iwama-ji Kon-do" and "Iwama-ji Yakushi-do," as well as important cultural properties such as the "Iwama-ji Kura." It is also the twelfth temple of the Shikoku 88-temple pilgrimage and an important spot for pilgrims. When you visit, you can also receive a temple seal.

Shōhō-ji Temple (Iwama-ji) is located on the southern foot of Mt. Hiei. The surrounding area is rich in nature, making it a great place for activities such as hiking and trekking. In the autumn season, the beautiful scenery of the changing leaves spreads out before you. On the temple grounds, there are many attractions such as the 350-year-old Daimyo-ichō (ginkgo) tree and the Hakuhime-ryūjin (white princess dragon god). Additionally, there are many cultural assets designated as national treasures or important cultural properties. When you visit, be sure to take a tour and see them for yourself.

At Shoho-ji Temple (Iwama-ji), the "Raijin Festival and Thunder Removal Ceremony" is held every April. During this festival, you can offer gratitude to the god of thunder and receive a talisman for protection against lightning. You can also receive a Goshuin, a stamp of the temple, which can be obtained at the main hall of Iwama-ji. There are also many other tourist spots in the area, such as Mt. Hiei Enryaku-ji Temple and Hiyoshi Taisha Shrine. When visiting Shiga Prefecture, be sure to also visit Shoho-ji Temple (Iwama-ji).

Shōhō-ji Temple (Iwama-ji) is also known as a place of training, much like Mount Hiei. Many practicing monks still visit today. The surrounding area is rich in nature, offering activities such as hiking and trekking. Additionally, there are many historical cultural assets that have existed since the Heian period. Why not spend some quiet time when you visit?

Shoho-ji Temple (Iwama-ji) is located about a 30-minute drive from Otsu City. It is also accessible by public transportation. You can access Shoho-ji Temple by taking a bus from Hieizan Sakamoto Station. There are also many tourist spots in the surrounding area, such as Hieizan Enryaku-ji Temple and Hiyoshi Taisha Shrine. When touring Shiga Prefecture based in Otsu City, be sure to visit Shoho-ji Temple (Iwama-ji).