Ishiyama Temple

Ishiyama-dera in Shiga, western Japan, was founded in 747 at the behest of Emperor Shomu. The temple worships the bodhisattva Nyoi-rinkan Kannon, who is said to give blessings for safe delivery, good relationships, and ward off bad luck. The statue is one of 33 holy figures on a pilgrim route of temples dedicated to the Kannon deity. Ishiyama-dera temple lets worshippers view its Kannon statue only once every 33 years.
The temple is also home to many historic treasures, and is also known as the place where the Japanese classic, The Tales of Genji, was written.  The temple holds events celebrating its author, Murasaki Shikibu.