Shiga-in, Buddhist temple in Sakamoto, Japan.
Shiga-in is a Buddhist temple complex in Sakamoto with multiple buildings distributed across the grounds, including inner sanctuaries, imperial quarters, study rooms, kitchen areas, and storage structures. The various buildings are positioned throughout the site and together form an extensive complex with distinct functional zones.
The complex was founded in 1615 by Buddhist monk Tenkai and received its name along with substantial land grants from Emperor Go-Mizunoo in 1655. This imperial support led to its development into a major religious center in the region.
Paintings by artists of the Kano school decorate the sliding doors and screens throughout the temple, displaying the traditional Japanese artistic skill of that era. Visitors can encounter these valuable works in various rooms of the complex and see the fine details of the artistic craftsmanship.
The temple is located near Sakamoto-Hieizan-guchi Station on the Keihan Railway line and is easily accessible on foot. Since the grounds contain several buildings and distinct functional areas, allow adequate time to explore the different structures and their contents.
The grounds include a dedicated space for kemari, an ancient Japanese ball game that was once popular as a physical and mental exercise at court. Additionally, there is a two-story study hall with distinctive landscaping from the Meiji period, creating an interesting contrast to the older temple architecture.
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