Ishiyama-dera Temple

石山寺

Ishiyama-dera is an old Buddhist temple in Otsu City, founded in the Nara period. It is known as the temple where Murasaki Shikibu is said to have started writing The Tale of Genji, a famous classic Japanese novel. Visitors walk through the large hillside grounds and see its old halls and pagoda.

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Visitor information

Opening hours: Gates open 8:00 and close 16:30. Last entry 16:00.
Closed: The main hall is closed on some days, including January 1–3 and December 28–31. On the 18th and 28th of each month it is closed until noon.
Admission: Entry: adults 600 yen, elementary school children 250 yen. Viewing inside the main hall costs extra (adults 500 yen).
Getting there: From JR Kyoto Station to JR Ishiyama Station is 13 minutes by special rapid train. From there, take a Kojak bus (about 10 minutes) to Ishiyamadera Sanmon-mae.

Hours and fees can change. Please check the official website before you go.

Good to know

Pets are not allowed. Guide dogs and service dogs may enter, except places where you take off your shoes.

Tips for Muslim visitors

Buildings may be photographed from outside only; photographing Buddhist statues inside the halls is prohibited.
The main hall is reached by a stone stairway called the Osaka.
The Kannon-do hall enshrines Kannon statues as objects of worship; visitors may simply look around.
Buddhist temples welcome visitors of all faiths. You can enjoy the buildings and gardens without joining any prayer, burning incense or buying charms.
Many halls ask you to take off your shoes. Wear socks and shoes that are easy to slip off, and keep a bag for your shoes if none is provided.
Photography is often not allowed inside halls. Follow the signs and ask staff if you are unsure.
Plan your visit around prayer times. Below are today's prayer times for Shiga and the verified places to pray nearby.
Food stalls and shops near popular sights usually do not have halal certification. Check the ingredients, or choose from the verified places on this site.