The temple is traditionally known as 'Hyakusai-ji' (100-year temple) because it was said that 100 foreign monks lived there at the time of its founding.
The site was historically protected by the powerful Sasaki clan, which influenced the development of its defensive stone-wall architecture.
It is a head temple of the Tendai sect of Japanese Buddhism.
The temple's garden features a unique 'borrowed scenery' technique incorporating the surrounding mountain forest.
Many structures on the temple grounds were rebuilt during the Edo period following the destruction caused by Oda Nobunaga's forces.
Hyakusai-ji is one of the oldest temples in the Koto region, founded in 606 AD by Prince Shotoku. It serves as the 12th temple of the Kannon Pilgrimage of the Lake Biwa area. The temple grounds are known for the '1,000-year maples' that turn vibrant red in late autumn. Its architecture is integrated into the mountain slope of Mount Shaka. The temple layout features a stone-walled approach and a moss-covered garden designed in the Momoyama period. The main hall houses a significant wooden statue of the Eleven-faced Kannon. The temple complex was destroyed during the warfare of the late 16th century and subsequently rebuilt under the patronage of the Tokugawa shogunate. Its elevated position offers panoramic views over the plains of the Higashiomi region.
The view from the main hall's veranda looking down over the terraced garden and the valley below.
Wear comfortable, non-slip walking shoes as the temple grounds involve uneven stone steps and incline paths.
Bring a camera with a macro lens to capture the fine textures of the moss and maple leaves.
Check the local color forecast online for Shiga Prefecture during November to time the peak autumn foliage.
Avoid visiting on rainy days when the stone paths become slippery and potentially hazardous.
Open daily; no seasonal closures, but autumn foliage viewing typically attracts high visitor volume in November.
Remove shoes when entering temple halls; maintain a quiet voice; do not photograph indoor religious icons or altars.
