noun
head temple; main temple
Refers to the principal temple of a Buddhist sect, often contrasted with branch temples (末寺).
See also: 本山
この宗派の本寺は京都にある。
The head temple of this sect is in Kyoto.
noun
Used to refer to the temple where the speaker or writer is currently located, or the temple under discussion.
See also: 本山
本寺の歴史は古く、創建は奈良時代にさかのぼる。
This temple has a long history, dating back to the Nara period.