Saikyoji Temple (Shiga Prefecture) Complete Guide | History and Highlights of the Tendai Shinseiha Head Temple Associated with Akechi Mitsuhide
Saikyoji Temple, located in Sakamoto, Otsu City, Shiga Prefecture, is a historic temple known as the head temple of the Tendai Shinseiha sect with over 450 branch temples nationwide. Situated on the southeastern foothills of Mount Hiei, the temple grounds offer a panoramic view of Lake Biwa, and it is cherished by history enthusiasts as the family temple of Akechi Mitsuhide. This article provides comprehensive information about Saikyoji’s history, highlights of the temple grounds, and access information that you should know before visiting.
About Saikyoji | Overview of the Tendai Shinseiha Head Temple
Saikyoji (西教寺), formally known as “Kaiko-san Kenpo-sho Saikyoji,” is the head temple of the Tendai Shinseiha sect located at 5-chome Sakamoto, Otsu City, Shiga Prefecture. Situated about 1.5 km northwest of Keihan Railway’s Sakamoto-Hieizanguchi Station, on the southeastern foothills of Mount Hiei (elevation 848.3 m), it boasts vast temple grounds.
The Tendai Shinseiha sect was founded by Shinseisonjin during the late Muromachi period and is characterized by teachings that emphasize chanting the Buddha’s name and observing the precepts. Saikyoji serves as its central training hall and continues to gather the faith of followers nationwide.
The temple grounds are located near the entrance to Mount Hiei’s Yokawa, with a commanding view of Lake Biwa below. Solemn halls and structures fill the grounds, and the view of Lake Biwa framed by the Karamon Gate particularly captivates visitors.
History of Saikyoji | From Prince Shotoku’s Founding to Shinseisonjin
Foundation Legend by Prince Shotoku
According to temple tradition, Saikyoji was founded by Prince Shotoku (574-622) for his teachers, the Korean monks Eji (慧慈) and Eiso (慧聡). This legend marks the beginning of the temple’s long history.
Subsequently, the temple is said to have received imperial patronage from Emperor Tenji (626-671), indicating that it maintained deep connections with the imperial court.
Revival by Ryogen and Genshin
During the Heian period, Jie Daishi Ryogen (913-985), known as the reviver of Enryakuji Temple, restored the then-desolate Saikyoji. As the 18th chief abbot of Enryakuji, Ryogen worked to advance the Tendai sect and refounded Saikyoji as a hall for chanting the Buddha’s name.
Furthermore, Genshin (942-1017) of Yokawa also established a hermitage at Saikyoji for practice. As the author of the “Ojoyoshu,” Genshin was a master of Pure Land Buddhism, demonstrating that Saikyoji played an important role as a center for nenbutsu (Buddha-name chanting) faith.
Opening of the Tendai Shinseiha Sect by Shinseisonjin
The most significant turning point in Saikyoji’s history came in 1486 (Bunmei 18) during the Muromachi period when Shinseisonjin (1443-1495) entered the temple. After training on Mount Hiei, Shinseisonjin established a unique teaching emphasizing nenbutsu and the precepts, and based at Saikyoji, engaged in missionary activities.
Shinseisonjin’s teachings centered on “unceasing nenbutsu” and “perfect precepts,” emphasizing the continuous chanting of the Buddha’s name in daily life and strict adherence to the precepts. These teachings spread among the common people, and Saikyoji flourished greatly. Following Shinseisonjin’s entry, Saikyoji established its position as the head temple of the Tendai Shinseiha sect, a status it maintains today.
The Burning of Mount Hiei by Oda Nobunaga and Saikyoji’s Destruction
In 1571 (Genki 2), a major trial befell Saikyoji. During Oda Nobunaga’s burning of Mount Hiei, Saikyoji was also set on fire, and most of its buildings burned down. This destruction resulted in the loss of many ancient records and treasures.
The main hall was rebuilt three years after the burning, but the original principal image was replaced with an Amitabha Buddha statue brought from Jofukuji Temple in Koga County (present-day Koga City, Shiga Prefecture). This Amitabha Buddha image continues to be enshrined as the principal image at Saikyoji.
Akechi Mitsuhide and Saikyoji | Connection as the Family Temple
Restoration of the Temple by Akechi Mitsuhide
After Nobunaga’s burning of Mount Hiei, Akechi Mitsuhide (circa 1528-1582), who became lord of Sakamoto Castle, took control of the area, and it is said that Mitsuhide made great efforts to restore Saikyoji.
Mitsuhide devoted himself to reviving Saikyoji in parallel with the construction of Sakamoto Castle. According to temple records, Mitsuhide cooperated in donating temple lands and repairing buildings, establishing a deep relationship with Saikyoji.
Graves of the Akechi Mitsuhide Family
Saikyoji is also known as the family temple of Akechi Mitsuhide and his clan. The temple grounds contain the graves of Mitsuhide and his wife Hiroko (煕子), and also preserves items associated with Mitsuhide.
According to tradition, after the Honnoji Incident, Mitsuhide’s body, defeated in the Battle of Yamashina, was brought to Saikyoji by his retainers and buried there. Mitsuhide’s wife Hiroko passed away before her husband and her grave is also at Saikyoji. Hiroko is known as a wise wife who supported Mitsuhide throughout his life, and numerous anecdotes remain testifying to the depth of their conjugal bond.
Since the recent broadcast of the NHK Taiga drama “Kirin ga Kuru,” the number of history enthusiasts visiting Saikyoji as a site associated with Akechi Mitsuhide has increased.
Temple Grounds and Highlights of Saikyoji
Main Hall (Grade of Important Cultural Property)
The main hall of Saikyoji was rebuilt after Nobunaga’s burning and presents an imposing appearance. Inside, the principal image of Amitabha Buddha is enshrined, surrounded by a solemn atmosphere.
Daily Buddhist services based on the teachings of the Tendai Shinseiha sect are held in the main hall, where visitors can reverently offer prayers. The ornate decorations and Buddhist implements within are also worth seeing.
Guest Hall and Garden
Saikyoji’s guest hall is said to have been relocated from the remains of Fushimi Castle. Fushimi Castle was built by Toyotomi Hideyoshi and was subsequently rebuilt by Tokugawa Ieyasu after the Battle of Sekigahara, but was abandoned during the Edo period. When the castle was abandoned, buildings were relocated to various temples and shrines, and the guest hall of Saikyoji is said to be one of them.
From the guest hall, one can enjoy a beautiful garden, with views changing through the four seasons. Particularly during autumn foliage season, the entire temple grounds are colored red and yellow, attracting many tourists.
Karamon Gate and Lake Biwa Scenery
The Karamon Gate of Saikyoji is particularly popular as a photogenic spot within the temple grounds. The view of Lake Biwa framed by the Karamon Gate leaves a deep impression on visitors.
On clear days, one can see across Lake Biwa to the mountains on the opposite shore, and this open vista is unique to Saikyoji’s location on the southeastern foothills of Mount Hiei.
Historic Sites Related to Akechi Mitsuhide
The temple grounds contain the graves of Akechi Mitsuhide and his family, making it a pilgrimage destination for Mitsuhide enthusiasts. Near the graves, there is also space displaying Mitsuhide’s personal effects and related materials, allowing visitors to understand Mitsuhide’s character.
Additionally, stone lanterns said to have been donated by Mitsuhide and other items associated with him remain throughout the temple grounds, making it a location for enjoying historical exploration.
Bell Tower and Bronze Bell
Saikyoji’s bell tower houses an ancient bronze bell. The sound of this bell has resonated across Sakamoto, marking time for local residents. Visitors can ring the bell to purify their hearts and make wishes.
Wind Chimes Corridor (Summer Limited)
In recent years, Saikyoji holds a summer-limited event called the “Wind Chimes Corridor.” This is a collaboration with Kurogane in Nagahama, featuring 700 colorful glass wind chimes hung along the approach, their cool tones resonating through the temple grounds.
Beyond the wind chimes stands a golden Amitabha Buddha statue, making this a summer attraction enjoyed through both sight and sound. The event is typically held from around July 1 to September 20.
Cultural Properties and Treasures of Saikyoji
Saikyoji houses numerous cultural properties accumulated throughout its long history.
Principal Image of Amitabha Buddha
The current principal image is the Amitabha Buddha statue brought from Jofukuji Temple in Koga County after Nobunaga’s burning. Believed to date from the late Heian period, it is characterized by a serene expression.
Relics Related to Shinseisonjin
Many personal belongings of Shinseisonjin, the founding patriarch of the Tendai Shinseiha sect, are preserved. Items such as prayer beads, vestments, and written correspondence used by the master are valuable materials transmitting the life and teachings of Shinseisonjin.
Materials Related to Akechi Mitsuhide
Letters by Mitsuhide and documents concerning the Akechi family are also held, serving as important historical research materials. Special exhibitions occasionally provide opportunities to view these materials directly.
Annual Events and Services at Saikyoji
As the head temple of the Tendai Shinseiha sect, Saikyoji conducts various services and events throughout the year.
Major Annual Events
- Shushoé (January 1-3): Service welcoming the New Year
- Nehanié (around February 15): Service commemorating Buddha’s entry into Nirvana
- Spring Equinox Service (around the spring equinox in March): Service honoring ancestors
- Shinseisonjin Oki (May): Service on the death anniversary of the sect’s founder Shinseisonjin
- Ullambana Service (August 13-15): Obon festival service
- Autumn Equinox Service (around the autumn equinox in September): Service honoring ancestors
- New Year’s Eve Bell Ringing (December 31): Year-end bell ringing
During these events, many devotees and visitors come, and the temple grounds become lively.
Access Information for Saikyoji
Access by Train
When using the JR Kosei Line:
- Get off at JR Kosei Line “Hieizansakamoto” Station
- Take Eiwakutsu Bus for about 7 minutes, get off at “Saikyoji” bus stop
- Or walk about 30 minutes
When using Keihan Electric Railway:
- Get off at Keihan Electric Railway “Sakamoto-Hieizanguchi” Station
- Take Eiwakutsu Bus for about 4 minutes, get off at “Saikyoji” bus stop
- Or walk about 25 minutes
Using Keihan Electric Railway slightly reduces the distance from the station to Saikyoji. If walking, you can enjoy the Sakamoto streetscape.
Access by Car
Using the Meishin Expressway:
- About 20 minutes from Kyoto East IC
- About 5 minutes from Kosei Road/Sakamoto North IC
Parking:
A dedicated parking lot with 50 spaces is available near the temple reception. Parking is free. Note that congestion may occur during tourist seasons and weekends, so early arrival is recommended.
Combining with Nearby Attractions
Saikyoji is located in the Sakamoto district, which has many tourist attractions nearby.
- Hiyoshi Taisha: About 15 minutes on foot, the head shrine of 3,800 Hiyoshi/Hie/Sanno shrines nationwide
- Former Chikurin-in: About 20 minutes on foot, notable for its beautiful garden
- Sakamoto Streetscape: Historic townscape with beautiful stone walls
- Enryakuji Temple on Mount Hiei: About 30 minutes by cable car, the head temple of the Tendai sect
The Sakamoto district is famous for stone walls built by the Anouetsu (穴太衆), a group of stonemasons, making town walks enjoyable. Spending a day exploring the Sakamoto district in combination with Saikyoji is recommended.
Admission Information
Visiting Hours and Admission Fee
Visiting Hours:
- 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Admission acceptance closes at 4:30 PM)
Admission Fee:
- Adults: 500 yen
- Junior and senior high school students: 300 yen
- Elementary school students: 200 yen
(Group discounts available. Contact the official website or phone for details)
Closed Days:
- Generally open year-round
- However, the temple may be closed to visitors due to services or events
Contact Information
Address:
〒520-0113 5-chome Sakamoto, Otsu City, Shiga Prefecture
Phone Number:
077-578-0013
Official Website:
http://saikyoji.org/
Tourism Information Around Saikyoji
Combination with Lake Biwa Cruises
From the Sakamoto district where Saikyoji is located, it is about 15-20 minutes by car to the dock of Lake Biwa Steamship. Combining a visit to Saikyoji with a Lake Biwa cruise enhances the Shiga tourism experience.
Lake Biwa Steamship offers various plans including regular cruises, event cruises, and Chikubu Island cruises, allowing visitors to enjoy Lake Biwa from a ship. The “Around Lake Biwa Island Tour” is particularly popular.
Accommodation at Ogoto Onsen
About 10 minutes by car from Saikyoji is Ogoto Onsen. Located on the shores of Lake Biwa, many inns allow you to enjoy hot springs while viewing the lake. Combining a Saikyoji visit with an overnight stay at an onsen resort is also recommended.
Dining Establishments in Sakamoto District
Sakamoto district has several dining establishments serving dishes made with local ingredients. You can enjoy Shiga specialties such as Omi beef, Lake Biwa fish dishes, and vegetarian cuisine.
Tips for Visiting Saikyoji
Clothing and What to Bring
Since Saikyoji is located on a mountain foothills, the temple grounds have slopes and stairs. It is advisable to wear comfortable shoes. In summer, the sun is strong, so it is good to bring a hat, umbrella, and drinks. In winter, warm clothing is necessary.
Photography
Photography on the temple grounds is generally permitted, but there are areas such as the interior of the main hall where photography is prohibited. When taking photos, follow staff instructions and be considerate of other visitors.
Time Required
To leisurely tour Saikyoji’s grounds, plan for 1 to 1.5 hours. If you wish to view Akechi Mitsuhide-related historic sites in detail or spend time relaxing in the garden, allow about 2 hours.
Experience the Charm of Saikyoji
Saikyoji is a temple with layered history ranging from the tradition of being founded by Prince Shotoku to Shinseisonjin’s opening of the Tendai Shinseiha sect and deep connections with Akechi Mitsuhide. The beautiful grounds overlooking Lake Biwa, solemn main hall and guest hall, and the scenery created by nature through the four seasons provide profound moving experiences to all visitors.
For history enthusiasts, it appeals as a historic site associated with Akechi Mitsuhide; for those interested in Buddhism and temple architecture, it appeals as the head temple of the Tendai Shinseiha sect with its magnificent structures; and for those wishing to enjoy nature and scenery, it appeals as a scenic spot with panoramic views of Lake Biwa. Each visitor can enjoy it in their own way.
When visiting Shiga Prefecture, be sure to visit Saikyoji. In the serene grounds cradled by Mount Hiei’s embrace, you will surely have a precious experience touching history, culture, and beautiful nature.
