Daitsuji Temple

Daitsuji Temple, affectionately known as "Nagahama Gobo" or "Gobo-san," stands as one of the most historically significant temples in Nagahama, Shiga Prefecture. This branch temple of Kyoto's Higashi Honganji belongs to the Jodo Shinshu Otani sect and was originally established in 1602 by Kyonyo Shonin, the 12th head priest of Honganji, on the former site of Nagahama Castle. The temple was relocated to its current location in 1649 through a land donation by Ii Naotaka, the second lord of Hikone domain, and was officially upgraded to its present status in 1652.

The temple complex preserves remarkable architectural treasures from Japan's Azuchi-Momoyama period. The main hall, designated as a National Important Cultural Property, originally served as part of Fushimi Castle built by Toyotomi Hideyoshi and was later transferred to Daitsuji. The grand two-story zelkova wood gate, completed in 1841 after 33 years of construction, was modeled after the gate of Higashi Honganji in Kyoto. The temple's side gate, known as the kitchen gate or Daidokoro-mon, is believed to be the former main gate of Nagahama Castle and still bears marks from arrows and firearms from the Honnoji Incident. Other significant structures include a bell tower from the Nanboku-cho period (1336-1392) and a distinctive bell tower surrounded by water.

Visitors to the paid area encounter an extensive collection of fusuma (sliding door) paintings by masters of the Kano school and other renowned artists, depicting cranes, pheasants, tigers, plum blossoms, and chrysanthemums. The temple features two nationally designated gardens: Ganzanken Garden, a dry landscape garden from the early 17th century incorporating Mount Ibuki as borrowed scenery, and Rantei Garden from the 18th century, named after a famous drawing by artist Maruyama Okyo. The temple grounds also include a 250-year-old plant and multiple historic structures that transport visitors to Japan's feudal era.

The temple is located just 12 minutes on foot from JR Nagahama Station on the Biwako Line (Hokuriku Main Line). The temple sits along the historic Daitsuji Temple Omotesando, a charming street lined with traditional shops, cafes, and craft stores. Admission costs ¥500 for adults, ¥100 for junior high school students (ages 12-15), with elementary school children and younger admitted free. Group discounts are available for parties of 20 or more.