Jōraku-ji, National Treasure Buddhist temple in Konan, Japan.
Description
Jōraku-ji is a Buddhist temple in Konan with a main hall built in the traditional irimoya-zukuri style, featuring a roof shingled with hinoki cypress bark. The structure displays detailed wooden craftsmanship and houses two National Treasures, including a three-story pagoda from 1400.
History
The temple was founded by monk Rōben between 708 and 715 and served to protect the northeastern area of Shigaraki Palace from spiritual harm. This protective role defined the temple's purpose from its earliest days.
Culture
This temple serves as the first stop on the Ōmi Saigoku Sanjusankasho pilgrimage route, drawing people who follow a spiritual path connecting dozens of sacred sites. The pilgrimage tradition remains active today, connecting visitors with a practice that has shaped local religious life for centuries.
Practical
A visit requires advance reservation, and the temple is open from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. It sits about 3 minutes on foot from Nishitera bus stop, making it fairly easy to reach.
Did you know?
The temple houses a hidden statue of Senjū Kannon that is only displayed on special occasions. This concealed image draws visitors interested in encountering rare religious artworks.
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (Konan).
Miho Museum
8.9 km
Mikami Shrine
6.9 km
甲賀家庭樂園
6.9 km
Shigaraki Palace Sites
8.5 km
Chōju-ji
1.2 km
Zensui-ji
6.1 km
Ōsasahara Shrine
9.7 km
Omiodori Bridge
5.6 km
Tachiki Shrine
8.8 km
金勝寺 (栗東市)
4 km
Kusatsu-Juku Honjin
8.6 km
Ise Site
7.9 kmHikumo-jinja
9.7 km
Ishibe-shukuba-no-sato
1.6 km
Handō-ji
9.5 km
Yoshimiko-jinja
2.3 km
Shiga Safari Museum
8.8 km
Miyamachi Site
6.9 km
湖南市市民地面陸上競技場
8 km
Ishibe Historical Museum
1.7 km
Kusatsu-juku Kaidō Kōryūkan
8.6 km
Rittō History Museum
4.8 km
下戸山古墳
5.8 km
Mount Mikami
6.8 km
善水寺本堂
6.1 km
Three-storied Pagoda, Jorakuji
38 m
Main Hall, Jorakuji
7 m
御上神社本殿
6.9 kmDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes