Kongorinji

Kongorin-ji is one of the three Koto Sanzan temples tucked into the wooded hills of eastern Shiga Prefecture, and arguably the most atmospheric of the trio. Founded in the 8th century as a Tendai Buddhist temple, its main hall is designated a National Treasure for its elegant Japanese-style wooden architecture. The surrounding garden has been recognized as an official Place of Scenic Beauty, with a moss-covered landscape that glows emerald green in summer and blazes with fiery maple colors in autumn. The approach along a stone-stepped path through ancient cedar trees sets a meditative tone before you even reach the temple grounds.