Ishiyamadera Temple is a historical Buddhist temple in Otsu city, Shiga prefecture. Its name literally means stone mountain temple and refers to the large rocks within the temple's premises. In addition to the interesting terrain and its many cultural treasures, the temple is noteworthy for its association with the famous 'Tale of Genji', one of the most famous literary works of Heian-period Japan (794-1185): its author, the court lady Murasaki Shikibu is said to have stayed at the temple when she came up with the story for the work.

Photograph provided by Biwako Visitors Bureau