Ashiura Kannon Temple in the city of Kusatsu, Shiga Prefecture, was full of visitors on Nov. 23, when it opened to the public for the first time this year.
Inside, a sign was displayed soliciting donations for repairs to the roof, which has deteriorated from years of exposure to the weather.
The centuries-old temple, designated nationally as an Important Cultural Property, is in need of restoration — the roofs of Amidado Hall and the Shoin Building in particular — prompting local volunteers to launch a crowdfunding campaign.
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