Officially, the temple is called “Nagara-san Onjoji.” Built in 686, it is Tendai Sect’s head temple with over 1200 years of history.
There are over 100 pieces of national treasures and cultural properties on this vast premises, such as the national treasure, Kondo. Visitors are allowed to see the national treasures, Kojoin reception hall and Kangakuin reception hall (Minimum of 3 visitors and requires a reservation made at least a week before the visit). 4 gardens were built over the 3 periods of Muromachi, Momoyama and Edo, one of which, Kojoin Garden, is designated as a historic site and a place of scenic beauty. Shiga prefecture designated the temple bell (Mii temple bell) which is from Momoyama Period and counted as one of the Eight Views of Omi,
The quaint premises have been used for so many movies and TV shows that you can have a tour on drama locations just at Mii-dera temple. You can have an experience as a strolling monk, practice zen, hand-copy sutra, draw a Buddha image, or make a rosary bracelet. The former dormitory for monks, “WAQOO, Mii-dera” is open for a monk experience.
Known as the spot for cherry blossoms since ancient times, the premises is lit up on spring nights, and more than 1000 cherry trees in different varieties are turned into a dreamy scene for visitors.
Highlights
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Tendai Sect’s head temple with over 1200 years of history.
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More than 100 pieces of national treasures and important cultural properties such as Kondo.
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The Mii-dera temple bell is counted as one of the Eight Views of Omi.
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You can experience zen meditation, hand-copying sutra, etc.
