Question 1

Is there a connection with the Lake Biwa Canal?

Accepted Answer

The Lake Biwa Canal, completed in the Meiji era, runs near Miidera, and the walk from the temple along the canal is popular in the cherry blossom season. You can take in modern structures such as the incline at the same time.

Question 2

What are the visiting hours and the reception closing time at Miidera?

Accepted Answer

Visiting hours are 9:00-16:30, with reception closing at 16:00. The cultural property storehouse is open 9:30-16:30 (reception closes at 16:00). The temple is open all year round.

Question 3

When are the cherry blossom and autumn colours at their best?

Accepted Answer

The cherry blossom is usually at its best from late March to early April, when about 1,000 trees bloom in the grounds. The autumn colours peak from mid to late November, when a special autumn viewing is also held. Both are beautiful set against the view of Lake Biwa.

Question 4

Can I get a goshuin stamp for the Saigoku pilgrimage?

Accepted Answer

Miidera is temple 14 of the Saigoku Kannon Pilgrimage. Goshuin are issued from 9:00 to 16:30.

Question 5

How much is admission?

Accepted Answer

Adults 800 yen, junior and senior high school students 500 yen, elementary school students 300 yen. Groups of 30 or more receive 100 yen off for adults and junior and senior high school students and 50 yen off for elementary school students. Holders of a disability certificate are admitted free for themselves.

Question 6

What is the history of Miidera?

Accepted Answer

It began in 687 when Otomo no Yotao founded it as a clan temple, and was revived in 858 by Enchin, the fifth head of the Tendai school. Having survived many trials, including the Genpei and Nanbokucho wars, it is also known as the phoenix temple. It has more than 1,200 years of history.

Question 7

What is the Evening Bell of Mii?

Accepted Answer

The temple bell in Miidera's belfry is known as the Evening Bell of Mii and is counted among the Eight Views of Omi. It is also famous as a New Year's Eve bell, and members of the public may ring it on 31 December.

Question 8

What National Treasures and Important Cultural Properties are there?

Accepted Answer

Miidera has National Treasure buildings including the main hall, the sutra repository, the Kojoin guest hall and the Kangakuin guest hall. Many Important Cultural Properties, such as the Nio gate and the three-storey pagoda, are also spread through the grounds.

Question 9

Do I need to book to see the Kojoin and Kangakuin guest halls?

Accepted Answer

The Kojoin and Kangakuin guest halls require advance booking (groups of 3 or more, applications to arrive at least a week beforehand) and can be viewed between 9:30 and 15:30. It is a rare chance to see inside National Treasure buildings, so we recommend booking early.

Question 10

Are there places to eat in the grounds?

Accepted Answer

There are tea houses and shops in the grounds where you can try local pickles and buy souvenirs after your visit. There are also plenty of restaurants nearby.

Question 11

Is there parking?

Accepted Answer

There are car parks around the grounds. They are busy in the cherry blossom and autumn colour seasons, so public transport is also recommended. The nearest station is Keihan Miidera, about 10 minutes' walk away.

Question 12

What is the address?

Accepted Answer

246 Onjoji-cho, Otsu City, Shiga Prefecture

Question 13

What are the visiting hours?

Accepted Answer

9:00-16:30 (reception closes at 16:00)

Question 14

When is it closed?

Accepted Answer

Open all year round.

Question 15

How much is admission?

Accepted Answer

Adults 800 yen, junior and senior high school students 500 yen, elementary school students 300 yen.

Question 16

Is there parking?

Accepted Answer

Parking is available. Please check the official information for details.

Question 17

How do I get there?

Accepted Answer

About 10 minutes' walk from Miidera Station on the Keihan Ishiyama Sakamoto Line. From Otsu Station on the JR Biwako Line or Otsukyo Station on the JR Kosei Line, take a Keihan bus and get off right at Miidera. About 10 minutes from Otsu IC on the Meishin Expressway via the lakeside road.

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