🗺️ Mii-dera (Onjō-ji)

Mitsui-dera (Onjō-ji), officially named "Chōtōsan Onjō-ji," was founded in 686 and has a history of over 1200 years. It is the head temple of the Tendai sect of Buddhism. The temple grounds house more than 100 national treasures and cultural properties, including the national treasure Golden Hall. The expansive temple complex features numerous buildings, and special visits can be arranged to the national treasure Kōjō-in guest hall and the national treasure Kankū-in guest hall (applications require a group of three or more and must be made one week in advance). There are four gardens built during the Muromachi, Momoyama, and Edo periods, with the Kōjō-in garden designated as a scenic spot. Additionally, there is a cultural property designated by the prefectural government, the Bonshō (Mitsui's evening bell), which is an artifact from the Momoyama period and is listed as one of the "Eight Views of Ōmi." Many films and Japanese dramas have used this picturesque temple as a filming location, allowing visitors to enjoy the fun of visiting these sites within Mitsui-dera. At Mitsui-dera, one can experience various activities such as mountain ascetic training, zazen (seated meditation), copying Buddhist scriptures, painting Buddhist images, and making Buddhist bead bracelets. Visitors can also stay at the former monk's lodging, "Wakū Mitsui-dera." Mitsui-dera has long been famous for cherry blossom viewing, and during the spring cherry blossom season, a lantern lighting event is held. The mysterious and enchanting lights illuminate over 1000 blooming Somei Yoshino cherry trees, mountain cherry trees, and weeping cherry trees within the temple grounds, allowing visitors to enjoy the beauty and linger in delight.

The Tendai sect's head temple, with a history of over 1200 years. It includes the national treasure, the Golden Hall, and has preserved over 100 national treasures and important cultural properties. The bell tower "Mizui Wanjin" is listed as one of the "Eight Views of Omi." Visitors can experience activities such as zazen (seated meditation) and copying Buddhist scriptures.