Things to Do

Shiga Foliage Spots

Discovering Japan's Roots: Eigen-ji Temple and Mandokoro Tea Experience

Known as a popular spot for autumn foliage, Daihonzan Eigen-ji is a temple in Shiga Prefecture that draws countless worshippers and tourists from both within Japan and abroad. Here, visitors can immerse themselves in the unique ways of ancient temples, like "zazen" meditation-where one learns to regulate breathing and posture to confront oneself in silence-and savoring "shojin ryori" or traditional Buddhist vegetarian cuisine, which offers insights into the teachings of Buddha. To spice up your trip, make your way over to Oku Eigen-ji, a village nearby that brings visitors to the forefront of "Mandokoro tea," a harvest made entirely organic and pesticide-free. Take this tour and see into untouched naturescapes, old-world lifestyles that took root as the natural model of SDGs, truly in tuen with the natural resources of the land.