What is the Jōgon-in International Art Festival (formerly the Jōgon-in Contemporary Art Exhibition)?

Jōgon-in is an ancient temple founded by Oda Nobunaga at the same time as the construction of Azuchi Castle, as the head temple of the Jōdo sect in Shiga Prefecture, and it possesses seven nationally designated important cultural properties.

On the other hand, as democratization and changes in lifestyles after the war have accelerated the decline in temple visits, temple buildings and gardens that require restoration and repair remain largely neglected.

The purpose of this Jōgon-in Contemporary Art Exhibition is to enhance both the dilapidated buildings and nature by incorporating contemporary art, to pursue the value that arises from being exposed to human eyes, and to revitalize the temple once again.