Free tour
Ishiyama-dera Temple: History, Legends, and Seasonal Beauty
Excellent(1)
Guru: Mustafa
Registered on 5 January 2026
I am a passionate and knowledgeable tour guide who enjoys helping travelers discover the culture, history, and hidden gems of each destination. I focus on creating enjoyable, informative, and well-organized tours, making sure every guest feels comfortable and engaged. My goal is to turn every trip into a memorable experience through local insight, clear communication, and a personal touch.
Free reservation and cancellation
Pay-what-you-want tour, no set price, reservation and cancellation are free
Tour description
Ishiyama-dera is one of Shiga Prefecture’s most historically and spiritually significant temples, beautifully located beside the Seta River near Lake Biwa. Founded in the Nara period, the temple is famous for being built directly on a massive natural rock, symbolizing the deep connection between Buddhism and nature in ancient Japan. As Temple No. 13 of the Saigoku 33 Kannon Pilgrimage, Ishiyama-dera has attracted pilgrims for over 1,300 years who come to pray to Nyoirin Kannon, a deity associated with compassion, wisdom, and the fulfillment of wishes.
This tour introduces visitors to the temple’s rich religious background, architectural features, and seasonal beauty. Ishiyama-dera is also widely known as the legendary place where Murasaki Shikibu is said to have begun writing The Tale of Genji after being inspired by the moonlight reflecting on Lake Biwa. Through stories, history, and gentle walking, guests will learn how literature, pilgrimage, and nature intersect at this sacred site.
The tour is designed to be calm and reflective, allowing time to appreciate the scenery, understand Japanese spiritual traditions, and experience the quiet atmosphere that has inspired worshippers, poets, and travelers for centuries. It is ideal for visitors interested in culture, history, and meaningful travel experiences.
*Temple ticket entrance: 600 yen.
Highlights
What will we see on this tour?
Meeting point:
Punto de encuentro
I will be wearing a hat and waiting in front of the main entrance gate of Ishiyama-dera temple.
1
Outside visit
石山駅
2
Outside visit
How much does this tour cost?
Free tours don't have a fixed price. At the end, each person contributes to the guide the amount they consider fair based on their satisfaction. As a guideline, Guruwalk recommends between €15 and $50 per participant.
Tour reviews
Excellent(1)
Generic
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By category
Professionalism
5.00
Fun
5.00
Communication
5.00
Quality
5.00
Route
5.00
Who is this tour for?
Accessibility
Not suitable for people with reduced mobility.
Groups
Does not accept large group bookings.
Pets
Not suitable for bringing pets.
What should I know?
Minimum attendees
Requires a minimum of 1 people to conduct the tour.
Additional costs
The tour requires payment for entries or additional expenses.
Free cancellation
If you cannot attend the tour, please cancel the reservation, otherwise the guide will be waiting for you.
Payment methods
Cash payment only.
Ishiyama-dera Temple: History, Legends, and Seasonal Beauty
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