Shiga-in Temple
A serene former imperial residence and monks' headquarters, featuring a historic garden and a peaceful atmosphere.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Enjoy tranquility and solitude
Shiga-in Temple
Best Time
Enjoy tranquility and solitude
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene former imperial residence and monks' headquarters, featuring a historic garden and a peaceful atmosphere.
"Free from tourists, this temple offers a tranquil escape with a beautiful garden and rich history."
🎯 Weekday Serenity
Visit on a weekday to have the temple grounds almost to yourself and enjoy a peaceful experience.
📸 Photo Opportunities
Photography is generally allowed for most areas, except for the principal image.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Shiga-in Palace Exterior
Temple Entrance
Majestic white walls and Anaoto-zukuri stonework, evoking the grandeur of a former palace.
Kobori Enshu Garden
Temple Grounds
A nationally designated historic site, this garden offers a tranquil space for reflection and appreciation of nature.
The Eternal Flame of the Law
Indoor Exhibit
Witness the same flame that burns at Enryakuji Temple on Mount Hiei, a symbol of enduring spiritual practice.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Escape the Crowds at Shiga-in Temple
Immerse Yourself in History and Nature
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Weekday Serenity
Visit on a weekday to have the temple grounds almost to yourself and enjoy a peaceful experience.
📸 Photo Opportunities
Photography is generally allowed for most areas, except for the principal image.
🌳 Explore the Garden
Don't miss the beautiful garden, a designated historic site. You might even feed the carp!
📜 Learn the History
A guide can offer fascinating insights into the temple's rich history and significance.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Weekday Serenity
Visit on a weekday to have the temple grounds almost to yourself and enjoy a peaceful experience.
📸 Photo Opportunities
Photography is generally allowed for most areas, except for the principal image.
🌳 Explore the Garden
Don't miss the beautiful garden, a designated historic site. You might even feed the carp!
📜 Learn the History
A guide can offer fascinating insights into the temple's rich history and significance.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Shiga-in Temple for its serene atmosphere, historical significance, and beautiful garden, often highlighting its lack of crowds, especially on weekdays. Some appreciate the opportunity to learn from guides and the unique experience of feeding carp. While generally well-received, the limited information on accessibility and dining can be a minor drawback for some.
"Monks headquarters. Free from tourists. Worth a visit"
Alan Sweeney
"The headquarters of monks' inns. There is a guide giving us a talk about its history. There is a beautiful garden inside."
R S
"There's So Much to See
I visited this temple in early November 2023 while exploring the Sakamoto area.
According to the information board:
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Shigain Monzeki
In 1615, Emperor Goyozei bestowed upon Jigen Daishi Tenkai (1536-1642) Hossho-ji Temple (located in Kitashirakawa, Kyoto, and one of the four sites where successive emperors received precepts) upon him. It was relocated to this site. In 1655, Emperor Gomizunoo bestowed the temple with the title Shigain and a temple estate of 1,000 koku. Until the end of the Edo period, the temple was home to generations of princes who served as head priests of the Tendai sect.
The exterior features majestic white walls lined with Anaoto-zukuri stonework, truly living up to its name as the Shigain Palace.
The palace was completely destroyed by a fire in November 1878 (Meiji 11), but the current buildings were reconstructed in May 1880, with the best architecture from each of the three towers relocated from the mountain.
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Even though I hadn't done much preparation, there was plenty to see, including indoor exhibits like "The Eternal Flame of the Law" and "The Palace Palanquin," as well as a garden by Kobori Enshu that has been designated a national historic site."
amsang04
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Shiga-in Temple is located in Shiga Prefecture, east of Kyoto. While specific public transport details aren't widely shared on social media, it's often visited as part of exploring the Sakamoto area. Consider local buses or trains from Kyoto to the nearest station, followed by a taxi or a scenic walk. +1
Information on car access and parking is limited. It's advisable to check local transport guides or consider using ride-sharing services if driving is not straightforward. The temple's mountain location might mean limited parking.
Many visitors explore the Sakamoto area, which includes Shiga-in Temple, as a day trip. Combining it with other nearby attractions can make for a fulfilling itinerary.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission to Shiga-in Temple is generally free, making it an accessible cultural experience. However, it's always a good idea to check for any potential changes or special exhibition fees.
Specific opening hours are not consistently detailed in social media posts. It's recommended to check with local tourist information or the temple directly for the most up-to-date hours of operation.
Advance booking is typically not required for Shiga-in Temple, especially as it's often described as being free from large tourist crowds. Enjoy the spontaneity of your visit!
Yes, you can experience the highlights of Shiga-in Temple, including its garden and historical exhibits, in a relatively short visit. However, to fully appreciate its serene atmosphere, allow ample time.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted within Shiga-in Temple, with the exception of the principal image. This allows visitors to capture the beauty of the temple and its surroundings.
The temple's exterior with its white walls and stonework, the tranquil Kobori Enshu Garden, and views of Mt. Omi-Fuji are excellent subjects for photography.
Specific regulations regarding drone photography are not mentioned. It's best to assume standard rules apply and avoid flying drones within temple grounds to respect the sanctity and peace of the site.
🎫 🌳 Onsite Experience
Shiga-in Temple was established as the headquarters for monks' inns and served as a residence for imperial princes who were head priests of the Tendai sect. It holds significant historical value related to the imperial family and Buddhist traditions. +1
Visitors can admire the temple's architecture, explore the beautiful Kobori Enshu Garden, see the 'Eternal Flame of the Law,' and learn about its history from guides. +1
Yes, a guide is often available to provide talks about the temple's history, enriching the visitor experience.
The temple is known for its calm and healing atmosphere, surrounded by moss and natural beauty, offering a serene escape.
Yes, visitors can feed the carp in the pond within the garden, which is a fun activity, especially for families.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the historical talks might be less engaging for younger children, the visual aspects of the temple, its unique architecture, and the beautiful garden can still capture their imagination. Visiting on a weekday ensures a more relaxed pace, allowing families to enjoy the site without feeling rushed. Remember to bring snacks and drinks, as dining options directly at the temple might be limited.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Peace Seekers
Engaging with a guide, if available, can offer deeper insights into the temple's rich history, enriching your solo exploration. The serene environment and the chance to witness the 'Eternal Flame of the Law' offer a profound spiritual or cultural experience, making it a perfect retreat from the bustle of city life.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Shiga-in's Imperial Past
The temple's history is also marked by a significant fire in 1878, after which the current buildings were meticulously reconstructed in 1880, incorporating the finest architectural elements from relocated mountain structures. This reconstruction ensures that visitors can still experience the grandeur and historical significance of this former imperial seat. The temple's past as a monks' headquarters and its connection to successive emperors underscore its importance in Japanese religious and historical narratives.
Exploring Shiga-in offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and appreciate a place where spiritual leadership and imperial lineage intertwined. The serene environment, combined with the rich historical context, makes it a compelling destination for those interested in Japan's cultural heritage.
The Artistry of Kobori Enshu's Garden
Visitors often describe the garden as beautiful and a place where one can feel healed by the calm surroundings. The presence of a pond with carp adds a dynamic element, and the opportunity to feed them is a delightful experience, particularly for families. The garden's integration with the natural mountain landscape further enhances its appeal, providing picturesque views and a sense of immersion in nature.
Experiencing this historic garden is a highlight for many who visit Shiga-in. It's a space designed for quiet reflection, allowing visitors to appreciate the meticulous care and artistic vision that has preserved its beauty through the centuries. The garden serves as a peaceful sanctuary, inviting visitors to slow down and connect with the natural world.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit