Chōmei-ji, Buddhist temple in Mukōjima, Japan
Chōmei-ji is a Buddhist temple in Mukōjima reached by climbing 808 stone steps through a bamboo forest to reach the upper sanctuary. The complex includes a main hall with a three-storied pagoda and bell tower standing at around 250 meters elevation.
The temple first appeared in written records in 1074 and gained important patronage from the Sasaki-Rokkaku clan during the Kamakura period, when they ruled as military governors of Ōmi. This connection helped establish its prominence in the region.
The site serves as the 31st station on the Saikoku Kannon Pilgrimage, drawing visitors who follow this sacred route across Japan. The eleven-faced Kannon statue in the main hall remains a focal point for pilgrims making their spiritual journey.
The temple is open daily from 8 AM to 5 PM, with the climb up the stone steps taking about 20 minutes to complete. Wear sturdy shoes and be prepared for a moderate physical effort to reach the main buildings.
The site sits on a mountain that was once surrounded by water before a nearby lake was filled in during past changes to the landscape. An old wharf near the entrance marks where boats once arrived at this location.
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