Ishiyama-dera's pagoda sits atop an unusual rock formation that has been considered sacred for thousands of years.

Nao-san sits on the rock beneath the elevated sutra store of Ishiyama-dera. Legend has it that women who sit here pray will be granted an easy childbirth.

Statue of Zao Gongen.

Looking down at the strange formation of wollastonite at Ishiyama-dera.

The mountain god Zaō Gongen (蔵王権現) appeared to Rōben in a dream. He explained that Kinpō-zan's secret gold supply was preserved for the coming of the 'future Buddha', but Rōben should seek Kannon's help at the south tip of Lake Biwa.

Here Rōben found a sacred rock formation.
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