Odani-ji Temple

Overview

Odani-ji Temple stands in Nagahama City, Shiga Prefecture, a temple of the Buzan school of Shingon Buddhism. Its mountain name is Nyoirinzan and its principal image is the Nyoirin Kannon. Known as the prayer temple of the Sengoku daimyo Azai clan, it carries the history of the Kohoku region to the present day. Counted among the Lake Biwa 108 Pilgrimage Sites, it is a temple where travelers can quietly join their hands while exploring the sites tied to Odani Castle.

Highlights

• ●Its pedigree as the prayer temple of the Sengoku daimyo Azai clan
• ●A Shingon Buzan temple named Nyoirinzan enshrining the Nyoirin Kannon
• ●A pilgrimage site counted among the Lake Biwa 108 Sacred Places
• ●A Kohoku historical setting at the foot of the Odani Castle ruins

History

Odani-ji served as the prayer temple of the Azai clan, the Sengoku daimyo family that held sway over the Kohoku region. As a Shingon Buzan temple enshrining the Nyoirin Kannon, it walked through history against the backdrop of three generations of Azai prosperity and the story of Odani Castle. Located at the foot of Odani Castle, the Azai residence, it is said to have watched over the clan's rise and fall. For details of its founding and its temple treasures, it is best to check official sources.

Map

35.4494, 136.2753 · Wikidata

Suggested itinerary

1. 1Visit Odani-ji at the foot of the Odani Castle ruins
2. 2Join your hands before the Nyoirin Kannon and reflect on the Azai history
3. 3Walk slowly through the quiet grounds of the mountain village
4. 4Extend your trip to the Odani Castle ruins and tour the Sengoku stage

Did you know?

💡 The principal image, the Nyoirin Kannon, is handed down as a Buddha that received the prayers of the Azai clan. As one of the Lake Biwa 108 Pilgrimage Sites, it is also cherished by those who visit while making a pilgrimage around the sacred sites of the lake.

Nearby spots