⛩️ Floating Hall (Mizuki Temple)

Haimen Mountain Manju Temple is located on the south side of the Biwa Lake Bridge and is a Zen temple of the Rinzai school, Daigo-ji sect. At the end of the stone bridge leading to Biwa Lake, there is a hall that looks like it is floating on the surface of the lake, known as "Ugu-dō." It is one of the most beautiful scenic spots in Biwa Lake. Ugu-dō has a long history. It is said that in the latter half of the Heian period, a monk named Gen-shin from Mount Hiei, one of the seven high priests of the Jōdo Shinshū, built this hall to pray for safety on the lake and the salvation of all beings. The existing structure was rebuilt in 1937 after being destroyed by the Kuroshio typhoon in 1934 and was renovated again in 1982. It is designated as a tangible cultural property by the national government. The hall perfectly preserves the charm of the past, and inside it houses 1,000 statues of Amida Buddha, which are said to have been carved by Gen-shin himself. Ugu-dō is also famous for being the site of "Katata no Rakugan," one of the Eight Views of Ōmi selected during the Muromachi period. Since the Edo period, it has been beloved by many literary figures, including haiku poets, who have left numerous haiku and works praising Ugu-dō. The famous haiku poet Matsuo Bashō wrote the lines, "Saku akete, tsuki sashi iriyo, Ugu-dō," which means, "Ugu-dō, please open your tightly locked doors and let the moonlight shine into the hall." As time has passed, the surrounding environment and the streets across the lake have changed continuously, but the beautiful scenery of Ugu-dō has remained unchanged. Especially, the hall against the backdrop of the sunrise is the most spectacular among many breathtaking views. Visitors can cross the stone bridge to enjoy a panoramic view of Biwa Lake in front of the hall and quietly appreciate the beautiful scenery that once captivated many literary figures, including haiku poets.

One of the Eight Views of Ōmi, a scenic spot showcasing the beauty of Lake Biwa. It resembles an elegant temple floating on the surface of the lake. The temple was built about 800 years ago to pray for safety on the lake and the salvation of all beings. Among the many stunning views, the temple set against the backdrop of the sunrise is the most spectacular.