Overview
Konsho-ji is a Tendai temple in the Arahari district of Ritto, Shiga, with the mountain name Konzeyama. Its principal image is Shaka Nyorai (Shakyamuni Buddha). Tradition holds it was founded in the Nara period by the eminent monk Roben, and it once flourished under the name Daibodai-ji as a major center of Buddhism in the Konan region. A quiet old temple nestled in the Konze mountains, it is known for the serene air of a mountain temple and for the hiking trails nearby.
Highlights
- ●An old temple said to be founded by Roben in the Nara period
- ●A mountain hall enshrining Shaka Nyorai
- ●The former prestige of the temple once called Daibodai-ji
- ●Quiet precincts wrapped in the nature of the Konze mountains
History
According to temple tradition, it was founded in the Nara period by Roben, the monk also renowned for overseeing the building of Todai-ji. Once called Daibodai-ji, it held many sub-temples and prospered as the central temple binding together Buddhist faith across the Konan area. Its scale shifted with the changing eras, yet its halls have been preserved in the mountains, carrying the light of the Tendai teaching to the present day. For a detailed history, please check official sources.
Access
The temple lies among the Konze mountains in Arahari, Ritto, Shiga. Access is generally by car from the Ritto Interchange on the Meishin Expressway or from the Kusatsu direction, with the precincts reached along a mountain road. Public transport is limited, so it is wise to check routes and parking on official sources before visiting.
Best season
From early summer, when the mountain greenery deepens, through autumn, when the leaves turn, is the most pleasant time. As the temple stands high in the mountains, worship stays relatively cool even in summer. In winter, beware of icy roads and dress warmly in sturdy walking shoes.
Map
34.9561, 136.0346 · Wikidata
Suggested itinerary
- 1Climb the mountain road into Konzeyama from the Ritto side
- 2Worship at the Main Hall in the mountain precincts
- 3Take in the still air of the mountain temple
- 4Extend your walk onto the nearby Konze hiking trails
Did you know?
💡 The temple's name and the mountain name Konzeyama have long marked this area as a center of faith. The surrounding Konze mountains are a hiking area known for granite rock formations and cliff-carved Buddhas, so a visit can be paired with a mountain walk.
Nearby spots
Traveler reviews0
No reviews yet. Be the first to share!