Jōsgon-in, Buddhist temple in Omihachiman, Japan.
Jōsgon-in is a Buddhist temple located on a mountain top in Omihachiman, featuring wooden architecture with panoramic views of Lake Biwa and the surrounding city. The buildings are arranged across terraces and gardens that blend with the natural landscape.
Founded by Nisshu, sister of the warlord Hideyoshi, the temple was relocated several times before arriving at its current mountain-top location in 1961. These moves reflect shifts in Japanese society across different historical periods.
The temple has maintained deep ties to Japanese nobility, with numerous princesses and daughters of court families having served as chief abbots. These connections continue to shape the cultural character of the place today.
A ropeway system connects the temple to the base of the mountain, making it easy to reach for visitors of all abilities. Once at the top, there is plenty of time to explore the grounds and enjoy the views at a relaxed pace.
Every July, the temple holds a memorial service for Hidetsugu Toyotomi, a warlord from the Edo period. This annual ritual practice continues a tradition spanning hundreds of years, connecting visitors to a living spiritual history.
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