Shoshazan Engyō-ji

Tuesday, August 27, 2019 Updated

Gorgeous Mountain Temple

The Shoshazan Engyō-ji is a temple in Himeji, Hyōgo, Japan, founded by Shoku Shonin in 966. The temple is often referred to as the Mt. Hiei of the West thanks to the large scale design and high status. The temple sits at the top of Mount Shosha, and can only be reached via a mile long nature hiking trail or by taking the scenic Mt. Shosha Ropeway. Listed as No. 27 on the Kansai Kannon Pilgrimage, the temple is often frequented by pilgrims or those interested in Japanese temple architecture.

If the temple grounds appear familiar, that's because the temple was prominently featured as a location when filming scenes from the hit film The Last Samurai. As a part of the Tendai sect of Japanese Buddhism, the temple is home to numerous buildings designated as Important Cultural Properties of Japan. This includes the temple's Daikōdō, Jōgyōdō, Jikidō, Shōrō, Kongodō, Kaizandō, Juryōin, and Gohōdō structures. Most of the temple's statues of Buddha are also designated as Important Cultural Properties.

Breathtaking Japanese Scenery
From the Comfort of a Rope-way Ride

Breathtaking Japanese Scenery<br>From the Comfort of a Rope-way Ride

The temple grounds are home to numerous seasonal Japanese flowers, wild deer, and boars. If you plan to visit the temple on foot, the hike is delightfully easy and is the preferred way for pilgrims. The hike is perfect to see the wildlife, and there's an impressive collection of old Japanese trees lining the approach to the temple for added beauty. On the other hand, the ride on the aerial tramway is smooth and perfect to enjoy the scenery of the mountain. On the temple grounds, tourists can see the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, Awaji Island, and the Shikoku prefecture on a clear day.

Lately, landmarks in Japan are beginning to offer temple stamp books to collect the seals of each temple. Shoshazan Engyo-ji is no exception, offering a beautiful stamp of the 27th temple for guests. Come collect the stamp of Shoshazan Engyo-ji and some of the rest of Japan's stunning temples with Japan Deluxe Tours. Ask your travel agent about our affordable line of custom private tours to enjoy the temple at your leisure with your own personal tour-guide in Japan.