Lake Tō Three Mountains Shiga Prefecture Complete Guide | Autumn Foliage Attractions, National Treasure Temples and Travel Information
What are the Lake Tō Three Mountains?
The Lake Tō Three Mountains (Kotō Sanzan) is a collective name for three Tendai Buddhist temples located in the Kotō region of Shiga Prefecture: Saimyōji Temple, Kongōrinji Temple, and Hyakusaiji Temple. Situated on the west slope of the Suzuka Mountains east of Lake Biwa, all three are historic ancient temples founded between the Nara and Heian periods.
They are also selected as one of Japan’s 100 Best Autumn Foliage Sites, and particularly during the fall foliage season, they attract many visitors from across the country. Each temple possesses National Treasure or Important Cultural Property designations, and they have become representative tourist destinations of Shiga Prefecture, harmonizing historical value with natural beauty.
Geographic Location of the Lake Tō Three Mountains
The Lake Tō Three Mountains are located in the eastern part of Shiga Prefecture, spanning the towns of Aisho and Higashi-Ōmi. Situated several kilometers east of Lake Biwa on the west slope of the Suzuka Mountains, the three temples are roughly 10-15 minutes’ drive from each other. This area has long been an important transportation crossroads, with many temples constructed during the medieval period.
Southeast of Hyakusaiji Temple lies Enyūji Temple, a Rinzai Zen temple also known as an autumn foliage spot. A popular sightseeing route combines the Lake Tō Three Mountains with Enyūji Temple.
Three Tendai Buddhist Temples Comprising the Lake Tō Three Mountains
Saimyōji Temple (Saimyōji) | Ancient Temple Affectionately Known as the Pond Temple
Saimyōji Temple is the northernmost of the Lake Tō Three Mountains and is also called the “Pond Temple.” According to tradition, it was founded in 834 (the first year of the Jōwa era) by the three-practice sage under imperial decree from Emperor Ninmei during the Heian period.
National Treasure Architecture of Saimyōji
The main attractions of Saimyōji are the main hall and three-story pagoda designated as National Treasures. The main hall dates to the early Kamakura period and is said to have been built by skilled craftsmen from Hida. It is characterized by an eclectic style combining Yamato style as its foundation with elements of Zen Buddhist architecture. The interior houses the principal image of Yakushi Nyorai (Medicine Buddha), along with Nikko and Gakko Bodhisattvas and the Twelve Divine Generals.
The three-story pagoda dates to the early Muromachi period and is constructed entirely of Japanese cypress, creating an elegant impression. Wall paintings depicting Shakyamuni Buddha and attendants cover the interior of the first story, and the pagoda is also designated as an Important Cultural Property.
Autumn Foliage and Gardens of Saimyōji
The approach to Saimyōji is covered with approximately 1,000 Japanese maple trees, creating a tunnel of red and yellow foliage in autumn. The Hōraiteien (Hourai Garden) within the temple grounds is known as a scenic garden, with a striking contrast between moss and foliage. The garden before the main hall is also beautiful, consisting of a strolling-style garden centered on a pond.
Admission Information
- Address: 26 Ikedera, Kōra Town, Inukami District, Shiga Prefecture
- Admission Hours: 8:00 AM–5:00 PM
- Admission Fee: Adults ¥600, Junior High ¥300, Elementary School ¥200
- Parking: Free (approximately 200 spaces)
Kongōrinji Temple (Kongōrinji) | Ancient Temple Famous for “Blood-Stained” Autumn Foliage
Kongōrinji Temple is located at the center of the Lake Tō Three Mountains. According to tradition, it was founded in 741 (the 13th year of the Tenpyo era) under imperial decree from Emperor Shōmu by the monk Gyōki Bodhisattva. The principal image is a standing Kannon Bodhisattva statue carved by Gyōki himself.
The “Blood-Stained Foliage” Legend
Kongōrinji’s autumn foliage is famous as the “blood-stained foliage.” This name derives from the exceptionally vivid crimson color of the leaves. Approximately 1,500 Japanese maple trees from the approach to the main hall turn a fiery red in autumn, captivating visitors.
Cultural Properties of Kongōrinji
The main hall (Daihikaku) dates to the Kamakura period and is designated a National Treasure. A elegant building based on Yamato style, its interior houses the principal image of the standing Kannon Bodhisattva (Important Cultural Property), along with Four Heavenly Kings standing statues and Twenty-Eight Guardian Deities standing statues.
The three-story pagoda dates to the Muromachi period and is designated an Important Cultural Property. The two-king gate also dates to the Muromachi period and houses guardian kings. The temple grounds include the Meishuyin Garden, known as a beautiful pond-circuit strolling garden.
Admission Information
- Address: 874 Matsuo, Aisho Town, Echi District, Shiga Prefecture
- Admission Hours: 8:30 AM–5:00 PM
- Admission Fee: Adults ¥600, Junior High ¥300, Elementary School ¥200
- Parking: Free (approximately 250 spaces)
Hyakusaiji Temple (Hyakusaiji) | Celebrated Temple Known as the “Small Eizan of Lake Tō”
Hyakusaiji Temple is the southernmost of the Lake Tō Three Mountains and possesses the longest history of the three temples. According to tradition, it was founded in 606 (the 14th year of Empress Suiko’s reign) by the Korean monk Ewisang under imperial decree from Prince Shōtoku.
History and Vicissitudes of Hyakusaiji
Hyakusaiji once flourished so greatly it was called the “Small Eizan of Lake Tō,” at its peak comprising 300 monk lodgings and commanding 1,000 warrior monks. However, the entire temple was destroyed by Oda Nobunaga’s forces and was later rebuilt during the Edo period. Stone walls and foundation stones remaining in the temple grounds today hint at its former prosperity.
Highlights of Hyakusaiji
The main hall is an Edo period reconstruction, but the principal image, a standing Kannon Bodhisattva with Eleven Faces, is a Heian period work designated an Important Cultural Property. From the main hall, one can overlook Lake Biwa in panoramic views, praised as the “garden with a view of the realm.”
Hyakusaiji’s garden is called the Kigenin Garden, a scenic pond-circuit strolling-style garden. The stone steps of the approach number approximately 300, with towering old trees standing on both sides, creating a solemn atmosphere. In autumn, the entire approach is enveloped in foliage, creating a fantastical landscape.
Admission Information
- Address: 323 Hyakusaidera-machi, Higashi-Ōmi City, Shiga Prefecture
- Admission Hours: 8:00 AM–5:00 PM
- Admission Fee: Adults ¥600, Junior High ¥300, Elementary School ¥200
- Parking: Free (approximately 200 spaces)
Lake Tō Three Mountains Autumn Foliage | Peak Season and Characteristics
Peak Foliage Season
The peak foliage season at the Lake Tō Three Mountains is typically mid-November through early December. Due to differences in altitude and sun exposure, each temple’s foliage peaks at slightly different times.
- Saimyōji: Mid-November to late November
- Kongōrinji: Mid-November to early December
- Hyakusaiji: Mid-November to early December
Since the timing may shift depending on weather conditions, it is recommended to check the latest information on each temple’s official website or social media before visiting.
Characteristics of Lake Tō Three Mountains Foliage
The foliage at the Lake Tō Three Mountains each has distinct characteristics.
Saimyōji is noted for the beautiful contrast between moss and foliage, with leaves falling onto the green moss of the Hōraiteien creating a painting-like beauty. The maple tree tunnel along the approach is impressive, glowing golden when light filters through.
Kongōrinji’s “blood-stained foliage” is characterized by its deep crimson color. The maples lining both sides of the stone steps from the approach to the main hall are an intense red, praised as the most vivid autumn foliage among the Lake Tō Three Mountains.
Hyakusaiji is notable for the length and grandeur of its approach, allowing visitors to enjoy foliage while climbing 300 stone steps. The combination of the panoramic Lake Biwa view from the main hall and the foliage creates a spectacular scene found nowhere else.
Congestion During Foliage Season
During peak foliage season, particularly weekend mid-November, the area experiences significant crowding. Parking lots frequently reach capacity, and traffic congestion occurs on surrounding roads. If possible, weekday visits are recommended. Early morning (just after opening) or late evening (before closing) are relatively uncrowded, allowing for peaceful foliage viewing.
Access to the Lake Tō Three Mountains
Public Transportation Access
Train and Bus Access
Saimyōji
- From JR Biwa Line “Kawase Station,” take Kokumin Bus “Aichi River Bintemari Village bound” for approximately 15 minutes, get off at “Saimyōji-mae,” approximately 5 minutes walk
- From JR Biwa Line “Inashio Station,” approximately 15 minutes by taxi
Kongōrinji
- From JR Biwa Line “Inashio Station,” take Kokumin Bus “Aichi River Bintemari Village bound” for approximately 15 minutes, get off at “Kongōrinji-mae,” approximately 10 minutes walk
Hyakusaiji
- From JR Biwa Line “Inashio Station,” take Ōmi Railway Bus “Yōkaichi Station bound” for approximately 20 minutes, get off at “Hyakusaidera-honchō,” approximately 20 minutes walk
- From Ōmi Railway “Yōkaichi Station,” take Chokochoko Bus “Aitō Line” for approximately 20 minutes, get off at “Hyakusaiji,” approximately 5 minutes walk
Temporary buses may operate during foliage season, so advance confirmation is recommended.
Car Access
Car Access to Each Temple
Saimyōji
- Approximately 5 minutes from Meishin Expressway “Lake Tō Three Mountains Smart IC”
- Approximately 20 minutes from Meishin Expressway “Hikone IC”
Kongōrinji
- Approximately 5 minutes from Meishin Expressway “Lake Tō Three Mountains Smart IC”
- Approximately 15 minutes from Meishin Expressway “Hikone IC”
Hyakusaiji
- Approximately 10 minutes from Meishin Expressway “Lake Tō Three Mountains Smart IC”
- Approximately 20 minutes from Meishin Expressway “Yōkaichi IC”
The Lake Tō Three Mountains Smart IC opened in 2016, greatly improving access to the Lake Tō Three Mountains. As an ETC-only interchange, please have an ETC card ready for use.
Efficient Route for Visiting the Lake Tō Three Mountains
When visiting all three temples in one day, it is most efficient to tour them in order from north to south (or vice versa). Plan for 1-2 hours viewing time at each temple.
Recommended Route
- Saimyōji (Viewing time: approximately 1.5 hours)
- Kongōrinji (Viewing time: approximately 1.5 hours)
- Hyakusaiji (Viewing time: approximately 2 hours)
Lunch is best taken in the Aichi River area between Kongōrinji and Hyakusaiji. Various restaurants serving local cuisine are scattered throughout the area.
Sightseeing Spots Around the Lake Tō Three Mountains
Enyūji Temple | Rinzai Zen Sect Temple
Enyūji Temple, located approximately 10 km southeast of Hyakusaiji, is the head temple of the Enyūji branch of Rinzai Zen Buddhism. It was founded in 1361 (Kōan 1) when Ōmi Regional Protector Sasaki Ujiyori invited Zen Master Jakushitsu Genkō to establish it. Known as an autumn foliage spot rivaling the Lake Tō Three Mountains, it is included in “100 Best Maple Spots.”
The temple grounds include a mountain gate and founder’s hall designated as Important Cultural Properties, with the combination of gorge beauty along the Aichi River and foliage being striking. Local specialties such as Enyūji konjac and Enyūji soba can be enjoyed.
Hikone Castle | Historical Castle with National Treasure Donjon
Located approximately 15 km northwest of the Lake Tō Three Mountains, Hikone Castle is a historic castle with a donjon designated a National Treasure. Built by Ii Naozugu and Naokatsu over approximately 20 years, it was completed in 1622 (Genwa 8).
The donjon, ancillary tower and covered passage, sky-bridge tower, drum gate with covered passage, and west bailey three-story tower and covered passage are designated as National Treasures or Important Cultural Properties. Genjyōen Garden is a large daimyo garden designated a scenic site, allowing enjoyment of seasonal beauty.
Taga Taisha | Ancient Shrine Affectionately Known as “O-Taga-san”
Located approximately 10 km north of the Lake Tō Three Mountains, Taga Taisha is an Engishiki-listed shrine enshrining Izanagi no Ōkami and Izanami no Ōkami. Affectionately known as “O-Taga-san,” it has long been venerated as a deity of longevity, good marriages, and misfortune prevention.
The temple grounds include the Taikō Bridge and Okugosho Garden (scenic site), with spring cherry blossoms and autumn foliage also being beautiful. Local specialties include Taga soba and itokiri mochi sweets.
Historic Towns of Ōmi Merchants | Gojussho and Ōmi-Hachiman
The areas of Gojussho and Ōmi-Hachiman, known as birthplaces of Ōmi merchants, are located near the Lake Tō Three Mountains. The Gojussho Kanaoka District is designated an Important Traditional Building Group Preservation Area, with beautiful streetscapes featuring white-walled storehouses and board fences.
Ōmi-Hachiman features harmony between the eight-ban canal and historic townscape. Local cuisine including Ōmi beef and cake can be enjoyed.
Best Season for Lake Tō Three Mountains Tourism
Spring | Season of Fresh Greenery and Flowers
In spring, the fresh greenery of the Lake Tō Three Mountains is striking. From April through May, trees simultaneously burst into leaf, enveloped in vibrant green. Azaleas at Saimyōji and rhododendrons at Kongōrinji are highlights.
Summer | Beauty of Young Maple Leaves and Silent Moments
Summer at the Lake Tō Three Mountains showcases beautiful young maple leaves, offering a refreshing atmosphere. Relatively few tourists visit, allowing peaceful worship. Shade within the temple grounds offers relief from heat.
Autumn | Spectacular Autumn Foliage
Autumn is the peak season at the Lake Tō Three Mountains. From mid-November through early December, the entire temple grounds turn red and yellow, displaying breathtaking beauty. As a selected site in “100 Best Autumn Foliage Spots,” the views are indeed magnificent.
Winter | Snowy Landscape and Serene Atmosphere
Winter at the Lake Tō Three Mountains displays fantastical beauty with snow-covered grounds. Particularly the morning after snow, a silver-white world unfolds, presenting entirely different beauty from foliage season. Few tourists visit, allowing peaceful worship in stillness.
Practical Information for Lake Tō Three Mountains Tourism
Admission Fees and Combined Tickets
Admission fees at each temple are ¥600 for adults, ¥300 for junior high students, and ¥200 for elementary students. No combined ticket is available; admission is paid separately at each temple. Visiting all three temples totals ¥1,800 for adults.
Expected Time
Viewing time at each temple varies depending on temple size and attractions.
- Saimyōji: 1–1.5 hours
- Kongōrinji: 1.5–2 hours
- Hyakusaiji: 1.5–2 hours
Visiting all three temples including travel time requires 5-6 hours. Peak foliage season may require additional time due to crowding.
Clothing and Items
Since temples on Lake Tō’s slopes have many stone steps and slopes, comfortable walking shoes and easy-to-move clothing are recommended.
Items Checklist
- Comfortable walking shoes (sneakers)
- Beverages
- Camera
- Pilgrimage stamp book (for those seeking stamps)
- Umbrella (during unsettled weather)
- Warm clothing (autumn/winter)
Pilgrimage Stamp Collecting
Pilgrimage stamps can be obtained at each Lake Tō Three Mountains temple. Saimyōji is the 32nd temple of the Western Kannon 49 Pilgrimage, Kongōrinji is the 33rd, and Hyakusaiji is the 31st, with many visitors undertaking pilgrimages to these sites.
Stamp collection during admission hours costs approximately ¥300 each. During peak seasons, wait times may occur, so visit with ample time.
Photography Tips
The Lake Tō Three Mountains abound with photo spots. Especially during foliage season, picturesque scenery appears wherever you look.
Recommended Photo Spots
- Saimyōji: Moss and foliage contrast at Hōraiteien, main hall and pagoda, maple tunnel along approach
- Kongōrinji: Blood-stained foliage along approach, main hall with foliage, two-king gate
- Hyakusaiji: Panoramic Lake Biwa view from main hall, stone steps and foliage along approach, Kigenin Garden
Tripod use should avoid impeding other worshippers. During busy periods, refrain from tripod use or follow staff directions.
Gourmet Information Around Lake Tō Three Mountains
Ōmi Beef Cuisine
Ōmi beef, Shiga’s representative brand beef, can be enjoyed throughout the Lake Tō Three Mountains area. Sukiyaki, shabu-shabu, steak, and other preparations are available.
Ōmi Champon
Ōmi champon, a local specialty popular in Hikone, features a light, Japanese-based broth. A healthy dish abundant in vegetables.
Crucian Carp Sushi
Funazushi, a traditional fermented food from Lake Biwa, has a distinctive flavor. Though divisive, it is a local specialty worth trying when visiting Shiga.
Shojin Ryori (Buddhist Vegetarian Cuisine)
Around the Lake Tō Three Mountains temples are dining establishments serving shojin ryori using local vegetables and mountain vegetables, offering healthy cuisine.
Model Courses for Lake Tō Three Mountains Tourism
One-Day Course
9:00 AM Arrive at Saimyōji, tour (1.5 hours)
10:30 AM Travel to Kongōrinji (15 minutes)
10:45 AM Tour Kongōrinji (1.5 hours)
12:15 PM Lunch (1 hour)
1:15 PM Travel to Hyakusaiji (15 minutes)
1:30 PM Tour Hyakusaiji (2 hours)
3:30 PM End sightseeing
With extra time, nearby sightseeing spots like Hikone Castle or Enyūji can be visited.
One Night, Two Days Course
Day 1
- Morning: Hikone Castle sightseeing
- Afternoon: Visit Saimyōji and Kongōrinji
- Evening: Stay in Hikone or Lake Tō region
Day 2
- Morning: Visit Hyakusaiji
- Afternoon: Tour Enyūji, explore Gojussho townscape
This course allows leisurely experience of the Lake Tō region’s attractions.
Historical Background of the Lake Tō Three Mountains
Eastern Propagation of Tendai Buddhism
The Lake Tō Three Mountains are all Tendai Buddhist temples. Tendai was founded by Saichō in the early Heian period and has Enryakuji Temple on Mount Hiei as its head temple. The Lake Tō region lies on the eastern extension of transportation routes from Mount Hiei, serving as an important base for eastern Tendai propagation.
Trials During the Sengoku Period
The Lake Tō Three Mountains endured significant hardship during the Sengoku period. Particularly when Oda Nobunaga burned Mount Hiei in 1571, Tendai temples like the Lake Tō Three Mountains became targets, with Hyakusaiji entirely destroyed. Saimyōji and Kongōrinji suffered major damage, but miraculously, their National Treasure main halls and pagodas were spared.
Edo Period Restoration
Following the Edo period’s beginning, the Lake Tō Three Mountains gradually recovered. Saimyōji was restored by Mochizuki Yūkan, while Hyakusaiji’s main hall and others were rebuilt. With the patronage of the Hikone Clan’s Ii family, temple lands were donated and repairs conducted.
Modern Preservation Activities
During the Meiji period’s suppression of Buddhism, many temples were eliminated or declined, but the Lake Tō Three Mountains survived through devoted community protection efforts. Following the Showa period, the main halls and pagodas of Saimyōji and Kongōrinji were designated National Treasures, their cultural value becoming widely recognized.
Today, the three temples collaborate to establish the “Lake Tō Three Mountains” brand, welcoming numerous domestic and international visitors as a representative Shiga tourism destination.
Cultural Properties of the Lake Tō Three Mountains
National Treasure Architecture
The Lake Tō Three Mountains preserve precious buildings from the Kamakura through Muromachi periods.
Saimyōji
- Main hall (early Kamakura period)
- Three-story pagoda (early Muromachi period)
Kongōrinji
- Main hall (Kamakura period)
These structures retain characteristics of medieval temple architecture and hold important historical value.
Important Cultural Properties
The three temples house numerous Important Cultural Properties including statues, paintings, and crafts.
Major Important Cultural Properties
- Saimyōji: Two Heavenly Kings statues, Twelve Divine Generals statues, three-story pagoda interior murals
- Kongōrinji: Standing Kannon statue, Four Heavenly Kings statues, Twenty-Eight Guardian Deities statues, three-story pagoda
- Hyakusaiji: Standing Eleven-Faced Kannon statue, gilt-bronze standing Kannon statue
These cultural properties transmit superior Buddhist art from the Heian through Kamakura periods.
Scenic Gardens
Each Lake Tō Three Mountains temple features beautiful gardens.
- Saimyōji: Hōraiteien (pond-circuit strolling garden)
- Kongōrinji: Meishuyin Garden (pond-circuit strolling garden)
- Hyakusaiji: Kigenin Garden (pond-circuit strolling garden)
These gardens showcase remarkable landscaping technique utilizing natural topography, allowing enjoyment of seasonal beauty.
Conclusion
The Lake Tō Three Mountains are representative historical and cultural tourism destinations of Shiga Prefecture. The three Tendai temples of Saimyōji, Kongōrinji, and Hyakusaiji each possess National Treasures or Important Cultural Properties and boast long histories spanning from the Nara period.
Particularly during autumn foliage season, spectacular scenery befitting selection among “100 Best Autumn Foliage Spots” unfolds, attracting visitors nationwide. Yet beyond foliage, spring’s fresh greenery, summer’s young maples, and winter’s snowy landscape each offer distinct seasonal appeal.
The location on Lake Biwa’s eastern side on the Suzuka Mountains’ western slope adds another dimension to its natural charm. Nearby sightseeing spots including Hikone Castle, Enyūji Temple, and Taga Taisha, when combined in visits, enrich Shiga tourism.
Where history, culture, and nature harmonize, the Lake Tō Three Mountains await. Please visit and experience their charm firsthand.
