Temple · Koto Sanzan (Kora)
Saimyoji Temple (Koto Sanzan) 西明寺
Tendai mountain temple in Kora, one of Shiga's Koto Sanzan, with a National Treasure main hall and three-storied pagoda among autumn maples.
Getting thereJR Kawase Station, bus to Kanaya then 20 min walk; or taxi 20 min
Time needed1-2 hours
Best timeMid to late November
Address26 Ikedera, Kora-cho, Inukami-gun, Shiga 522-0254
Websitesaimyouji.com/index.html
About
Saimyoji was founded in 834 and its Kamakura-period main hall and three-storied pagoda are National Treasures; the pagoda's interior has rare paintings. The temple's garden is a Place of Scenic Beauty, and the whole hillside is a famous autumn foliage spot. It is one of the three Koto Sanzan temples with Kongorinji and Hyakusaiji.
Highlights
- Main hall and three-storied pagoda (National Treasures)
- Hondo garden (Place of Scenic Beauty)
- Autumn maples
- Koto Sanzan temple circuit
Tips
- Car or seasonal shuttle is easiest
- Combine with Kongorinji (about 10 min drive)
- Busiest in mid-late November
Open in Google Maps · Info checked 2026-10-11
Plan it in Tabitomo
Save Saimyoji Temple (Koto Sanzan) to your trip, see reviews and photos from travelers, and get directions.
Open in the appNearby
- Kongorinji TempleTemple · 2.5 km away
- Taga TaishaShrine · 4.7 km away
- Menya KoyokenRamen & Noodles · 8.2 km away
- Hikone Sky AdventureActivities & Experiences · 9.8 km away
- Mandokoroen Yumekyobashi (Hikone)Tea Houses & Shops · 10.3 km away
- Hikone CastleCastle & Palace · 10.8 km away
- Sawayama Castle RuinsCastle & Palace · 10.9 km away
- Genkyuen GardenGarden · 10.9 km away