Ishiyamadera Temple

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History & Origins

It is said to have been opened by the Priest Roben by order of Emperor Shomu in 747 (the 19th year of Tenpyo). Since then it has flourished with the faith of emperors and nobles, and in the Heian period many literary figures and women stayed in retreat. A tradition remains that in 1004 (the 1st year of Kanko) Murasaki Shikibu stayed in retreat and, on the night of the harvest moon, drew the inspiration for the Suma and Akashi chapters of 'The Tale of Genji,' and the 'Murasaki Shikibu Genji Room' has been set up in the main hall.

Highlights

The main hall (including the Tahoto pagoda) designated a National Treasure, and the rare wollastonite rock on the grounds (a Natural Monument), are the highlights. In the main hall is the 'Murasaki Shikibu Genji Room,' where a doll depicting the writing scene is displayed. In autumn the foliage on the grounds is beautiful, and illumination events are also held. On the 18th of every month, a temple-gate market called 'Goo-san' is held.

Visitor Guide

About a 10-minute walk from Ishiyamadera Station on the Keihan Ishiyama-Sakamoto Line. Admission is 600 yen for adults, 350 yen for junior high and high school students and 250 yen for elementary school students (viewing the inner sanctuary of the main hall costs an additional 500 yen). Hours are 8:00-16:30 (last entry 16:00). Allow about 1-1.5 hours. It can also be reached by bus from JR Ishiyama Station.

Best Season

In the autumn foliage season (early to late November), the grounds are colored with maple leaves and night illumination is also held. During the harvest moon season (September), the 'Shugetsu-sai' (Autumn Moon Festival), themed on the Murasaki Shikibu tradition, is held, offering a special atmosphere.

Blessings

Annual Events

• February

  Hoshi Matsuri (Star Festival) and Setsubun Bean-Throwing

  A Hoshi Matsuri (a rite of prayer honoring the Big Dipper and driving away evil stars) and a bean-throwing ceremony are held on the grounds around Setsubun.

• September

  Shugetsusai (Autumn Moon Festival)

  A festival held on the night of the harvest moon. Based on the legend that Murasaki Shikibu conceived The Tale of Genji under the moonlight, gagaku music and other performances are dedicated.

• November

  Ishiyamadera Momiji Matsuri (Maple Festival) and Autumn Foliage Illumination

  Held when the autumn foliage on the grounds is at its peak. During the night illumination, the grounds, tinted red, are wrapped in a dreamlike atmosphere.

Travel Plan

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