Hyakusai-ji (百済寺)

History
Founded in Suiko 14 (A.D. 606) by Prince Shōtoku(聖徳太子), Hyakusai-ji is one of Shiga’s oldest Buddhist temples. Its name reflects the arrival of Buddhism from Baekje(百済), and the mountain is known as Shakasan(釈迦山).

The temple prospered under Tendai-shū(天台宗) and survived destruction during the attack by Oda Nobunaga(織田信長), later being rebuilt.

Garden
Featuring a strolling pond garden (池泉回遊式) and bold rock formations, Hyakusai-ji holds the title “Tenka Enbō no Meien (天下遠望の名園)” and is listed among Japan’s Top 100 Autumn Foliage Spots (日本紅葉百選).

Light-Up: Until November 30

Kyōrin-bō (教林坊)

History
Founded in Suiko 13 (A.D. 605) by Prince Shōtoku(聖徳太子), Kyōrin-bō is named after the forest where the Prince is said to have preached. The sacred Taishi no Seppōiwa(太子の説法岩) and Reikutsu(霊窟) remain today, giving it the identity “Ishi no Tera (石の寺)”.

Garden
The Ashiki Shoin(葦葺書院) showcases Edo-period architecture, and the Momoyama-style garden (桃山様式) features striking stones, dry waterfalls, and the iconic “Kakejiku Garden (掛け軸庭園)”—a perfectly framed natural landscape.

Light-Up: Until December 5

Kawaraya Zen Temple (瓦屋禅寺)

History
Over 1,400 years ago, Prince Shōtoku(聖徳太子) crafted temple tiles using this mountain’s clay—giving the temple its name “Kawaraya(瓦屋).” The temple later became part of Rinzai-shū Myōshinji-ha(臨済宗妙心寺派), embodying true Zen spirituality.

Garden
The Fudaraku Garden (補陀落庭園) glows with vivid Iroha-momiji(イロハ紅葉) and Yamamomiji(山紅葉), creating a serene autumn landscape.

Light-Up: Until November 30