Ishiyama-dera Autumn Moon Festival

About this event

The Ishiyama-dera Autumn Moon Festival is an event where you can spend an elegant evening admiring the "Autumn Moon of Ishiyama," which was also loved by Murasaki Shikibu. At Ishiyama-dera Temple, a famous spot for moon viewing since the Heian period, the festival is held in conjunction with the Harvest Moon (Chushu no Meigetsu). During the period, visitors can stroll through the temple grounds illuminated with paper lanterns revealing a profound and mysterious world, and events related to The Tale of Genji are held in the Main Hall. The autumn night is colored with beautiful melodies, allowing you to enjoy fantastic moon viewing. You can fully appreciate "Genji no Ma," where Murasaki Shikibu is said to have conceived The Tale of Genji, and the view of "Ishiyama Autumn Moon" depicted in Utagawa Hiroshige's "Eight Views of Omi." During the Buddhist memorial service held in the Main Hall, the "Sacred Portrait of Murasaki Shikibu" (replica) is hung in the inner sanctuary. The "Sacred Portrait of Murasaki Shikibu" (Muromachi period, replica), considered the world's oldest portrait of Murasaki Shikibu, is also exhibited; the prose written in the background of the enigmatic portrait and scenes from The Tale of Genji are also highlights. From the Tsukimi-tei (Moon Viewing Pavilion), you can gaze at the moon rising beyond decorated seasonal flowers and offerings, spending a tasteful moment.

Venue

Ishiyama-dera Temple

1-1-1 Ishiyamadera, Otsu, Shiga 520-0861