Overview
Shin-Chion-in is a temple of the Jodo (Pure Land) sect in Ikadachi, Otsu City, Shiga Prefecture. Its name derives from Chion-in, the head temple of the sect in Higashiyama, Kyoto, and it enshrines as its principal image a standing statue of the priest Honen, known as the Kagami Miei. Set in the rural Ikadachi district on the western shore of Lake Biwa at the northern foot of Mount Hiei, it is a quiet old temple where one can encounter the Pure Land faith connected to Honen amid a tranquil mountain-village setting.
Highlights
- ●A venerable temple whose name honors Chion-in, head temple of the Jodo sect
- ●The standing statue of Honen, the Kagami Miei, enshrined as the principal image
- ●History since the Muromachi period, said to date from its founding in 1467
- ●A calm precinct in the quiet mountain village of Ikadachi at the northern foot of Mount Hiei
History
Shin-Chion-in is said to have been founded in 1467, the first year of the Onin era in the Muromachi period. In an age when the flames of the Onin War engulfed the capital of Kyoto, it was established in Ikadachi in Otsu as a temple linked to Chion-in. Its name comes from Chion-in, the head temple of the Jodo sect, and it has carried forward the teachings of the priest Honen. Its principal image, the standing statue of Honen called the Kagami Miei, conveys a deep devotion to the sect's founder to this day.
Access
The temple is in Ikadachi, Otsu City, Shiga (around 35.1 N, 135.9 E). Access is by bus or car from stations such as Katata on the JR Kosei Line. By car, the Kosei Road (National Route 161) is convenient, and it can be reached from central Kyoto via routes crossing Mount Hiei or heading north along the western shore. As it lies in a mountain village, check bus frequency and visiting hours through official information.
Best season
As befits a mountain-village temple, this is a place where the changing seasons are beautiful. Spring into early summer wrapped in fresh greenery, and autumn when the mountains are colored by foliage, are especially recommended. It suits travelers who wish to worship slowly in a quiet setting. In winter the snow-dusted gate can take on a crisp dignity, offering a different face in each season.
Map
35.1429, 135.8741 · Wikidata
Suggested itinerary
- 1Head from Katata Station on the Kosei Line to Ikadachi and visit Shin-Chion-in
- 2Offer prayers before the standing statue of Honen and encounter the Pure Land faith
- 3Stroll slowly through the mountain-village precinct and surrounding rural scenery
- 4Extend your trip to the western shore of Lake Biwa and enjoy the lakeside views on the way back
Did you know?
💡 The name Shin-Chion-in, meaning New Chion-in, was given in reference to the head temple Chion-in in Kyoto. Against a backdrop of turmoil in the capital, the name itself tells the story of how faith connected to the priest Honen was carried to a mountain village on the western side of Lake Biwa.
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