Mii-dera Temple – An Ancient Temple of National Treasures and the Evening Bell of Mii

【Highlights】
・The “Evening Bell of Mii,” celebrated as one of Japan’s three most famous bells for its beautiful tone
・The National Treasure Kondo Hall, rebuilt by Kita no Mandokoro, the principal wife of Toyotomi Hideyoshi
・Kannon-do Hall, the 14th temple of the Saigoku Kannon Pilgrimage, offering sweeping views of Lake Biwa
・Cultural treasures that keep legends alive today, including Benkei’s Dragging Bell
・A spring garden where over a thousand cherry trees frame the National Treasures and temple halls

【History & Culture】
Mii-dera Temple, located in Otsu, Shiga Prefecture, is the head temple of the Tendai Jimon sect. Its formal name is Nagarasan Onjo-ji, and the common name “Mii-dera” comes from a sacred spring that flows within the temple grounds. According to tradition, this spring’s water was used for the first bath of three emperors—Tenchi, Tenmu, and Jito—earning it the name “Temple of the Three Wells” (Mii-dera).

The temple is said to have been founded by Otomo no Yotao, son of Prince Otomo, to pray for the soul of his father, who died in the Jinshin War. The foundations for its later development were laid by Chisho Daishi Enchin.

Despite suffering repeated religious persecution during conflicts such as the Genpei War and the Nanboku-cho period, the temple was rebuilt each time. This history of overcoming hardship has earned it the name “Phoenix Temple.” The present Kondo Hall was rebuilt in 1599 by Kita no Mandokoro, the principal wife of Toyotomi Hideyoshi. Designated a National Treasure as a representative example of Momoyama-period Buddhist architecture, it stands today as a testament to Mii-dera’s history of revival.

【Experience This Place】
Mii-dera Temple offers a range of experiences that let visitors connect with traditions passed down through the ages, including seated meditation, sutra and Buddhist image copying, yamabushi (mountain ascetic) training, and making prayer bead bracelets. The monk’s quarters, Myogon-in, also offer overnight stays. Beyond touring the National Treasures and temple halls, visitors can spend time experiencing Mii-dera in a truly unique way.

【Main Events & Festivals】
Late March to Early April: Spring Illumination
May: Sendanko Festival
November: Special Autumn Viewing
December 31: New Year’s Eve Bell Ringing