Bimyō-ji, Buddhist temple in Ōtsu, Japan.
Bimyō-ji is a Buddhist temple situated within the Onjo-ji Temple complex and displays traditional Japanese Buddhist architecture. The structure was built starting in the 10th century and has preserved its original wooden design with spaces arranged for religious practice.
A Buddhist master named Keiso founded the temple in 994, establishing it as an important religious center in the region. Across the following centuries, this site remained a significant place of Buddhist worship despite changes throughout Japan.
The temple's name relates to Buddhist teachings that have been practiced here for centuries. You can observe how the space continues to serve as a place for daily prayers and religious ceremonies.
You can reach the temple on foot from Otsu Station or from Kamisakaemachi Station on the Keihan line. Wear comfortable shoes since the grounds include pathways and some gentle slopes.
The temple forms part of a larger network of temples in the Otsu region, creating a rare example of an integrated religious landscape. This connection allows visitors to explore multiple sacred sites that together tell a deeper Buddhist story.
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