Otsu: Miidera Temple with the Spirit of Mount Hiei

5.0 (one review) 1 h 30 min Free cancellation Private tour

out of 5

one review

5.0

Otsu: Miidera Temple with the Spirit of Mount Hiei — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

Otsu: Miidera Temple with the Spirit of Mount Hiei, photo 2 — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

About this activity

Ōtsu’s Miidera Temple, nestled along the serene shores of Lake Biwa, invites you to uncover over 1,200 years of Buddhist history. Known for its great bronze bell and a revered Kannon Bodhisattva statue, this historic site showcases architectural elegance amid tranquil paths and stunning lake views. The option to extend your visit to Enryaku-ji Temple offers a glimpse into the heart of Tendai Buddhism, highlighting the unique rivalry and cooperation between these two spiritual hubs. This journey through Japan's religious landscape promises to connect you deeply with the region's cultural heritage.

Explore the historic Miidera Temple, a key site in Japanese Buddhism
Option to visit Enryaku-ji Temple on Mount Hiei, a pivotal monastery
Experience the beauty of the temple grounds across all seasons
Suitable for spiritual seekers, history enthusiasts, and cultural travelers alike

Private and Luxury Private Sightseeing Tours Cultural Tours Historical Tours Walking Tours New Product Short term availability Weather Dependent - Moderate

At a glance

Duration: 1 h 30 min
Confirmation: Instant confirmation
Ticket: Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group: Your group only
People per booking: 1–6
Guide: English
Operated by: DeepExperience

Ages: Adults (0–120 years)

What is included

Included

Included: Visit to Enryaku-ji Temple on Mount Hiei (option)
Included: Guide
Included: Visit to Miidera Temple

Not included

Not included: Transportation to and from the temples
Not included: Meals and drinks
Not included: Personal expenses

Itinerary

Mii-dera Temple

1 h 30 min Admission included

Miidera, also known as Onjō-ji, is one of Japan’s great Buddhist temples with over 1,200 years of history. Famous for its great bronze bell—celebrated as one of the “Three Famous Bells of Japan”—the temple has long been a center of faith in Kannon Bodhisattva. With atmospheric halls, quiet stone paths, and views over Lake Biwa, Miidera combines history, spirituality, and seasonal beauty, making it a must-visit destination in Ōtsu.

Meeting point and pickup

Everyone meets at the meeting point.

Meeting point

Meeting point: In front of the former Chikurin-in.

The guide will be waiting for you holding a yellow sign.

For details, please refer to the map.
Meeting point: In front of the Niomon Gate of Miidera Temple.

The guide will be waiting for you holding a yellow sign.

For details, please refer to the map.

End point

The ending point is close to railway stations, providing easy access to major destinations within Shiga Prefecture as well as to Kyoto.

Cancellation

Free cancellation

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

If you cancel	You get back
At least one day before	100%
Less than a day before	0%

Good to know

Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Options

Miidera Temple Tour

Miidera Temple Tour

Starting point:

Niomon Gate, 246-24 Onjōjichō, Otsu, Shiga 520-0036, Japan
With Enryaku-ji on Mount Hiei

With Enryaku-ji on Mount Hiei

Starting point:

Former Chikurin-in Temple, 5-chōme-2-13 Sakamoto, Otsu, Shiga 520-0113, Japan