823 Ishibadera-cho, Gokasho, Higashiomi City, Shiga Prefecture
Rating
Cost per person
¥500
Ishiba Temple, founded by Prince Shotoku at the foot of Mt. Kinugasa, is a historic temple featuring a wooden Amida Nyorai statue and a notable eleven-faced Kannon statue. Though a bit removed from Gokaisho's tourist center, it offers a serene escape with a moss-covered stone staircase leading to the main hall. The temple houses numerous Important Cultural Properties from the Heian and Kamakura periods. Visitors can explore the tranquil temple grounds and a small stone garden. Open from 9 AM to 4 PM, but closed on Mondays. A short bus ride from JR Notogawa Station, followed by a 15-minute walk.