Autumn Foliage at Saimyoji Temple (Tochigi Prefecture)

Saimyoji Temple, the 20th temple on the Bando pilgrimage route, features several nationally designated Important Cultural Properties, including the main hall’s altar, a three-story pagoda, and a grand gate. The grounds also include the Kobo Daishi Hall, a bell pavilion, and a unique Enma Hall famed for its 'Laughing Enma' statue. Visitors can see giant prized trees such as Japanese umbrella pines and chinquapins, as well as unusual square-stemmed bamboo groves. Located on Mt. Takadate, a boundary between warm and cold regions, the area offers interesting opportunities to observe various plants, insects, and wild birds. The trail from the main hall to Gongendaira and the mountain summit also serves as a popular hiking course.