Hieizan Enryaku-ji

滋賀県

4.4

Tourist Information of This Area

general.prefecture.

A world heritage temple with a history of about 1200 years.

Hieizan Enryaku-ji is a World Heritage Site that refers to the entire Hieizan mountain range, which has an elevation of 848m. With a history of approximately 1200 years, there are nearly 150 halls and pagodas within the precincts. There are also training halls where you can experience ascetic practices, and it may be a good idea to try it out to calm your mind or to focus your attention.

Features & How to Enjoy

Classic History

Highlights

Point 1

Visit the Head Temple of Tendai Buddhism

Enryaku-ji Temple on Mount Hiei has a history as the mother of Japanese Buddhism and is also the head temple of Tendai Buddhism. With over 1200 years of history, this temple has many cultural assets, historic sites, and scenic spots that still exist and are registered as a World Heritage Site. In addition, the most important ceremony of the year, the Goshuho Great Ceremony, is held where high priests walk around the temple grounds wearing golden brocade robes. Enryaku-ji Temple is one of the important temples in the Japanese Buddhist world, where you can experience its history and culture.

Point 2

Touring the Tourist Spots around Enryakuji Temple

There are many tourist spots around Enryakuji Temple, such as the Hieizan Driveway and Garden Museum Hieizan. Along the Hieizan Driveway, about 40 types of double-flowered cherry blossoms are planted, which bloom beautifully in spring. In addition, by using the Hieizan Cable or Ropeway, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Hieizan. Furthermore, there are hiking trails and golf courses on Hieizan, allowing you to fully enjoy nature. There are also local specialties and shopping spots around Enryakuji Temple, making it a place where you can enjoy all day long!

Point 3

Discover the Attractions of Enryaku-ji Temple Grounds

Enryaku-ji Temple grounds boast many halls, including the Konpon Chudo, which is a national treasure and a breathtaking sight to behold. Other notable halls include the Yokawa Chudo and Shakado. Additionally, there are historical structures such as the bell tower and five-story pagoda. You can also receive a Goshuin, a temple stamp, at Enryaku-ji Temple grounds.

Point 4

Taste the Local Specialty Dishes around Enryaku-ji Temple

There are restaurants around Enryaku-ji Temple where you can taste local specialty dishes such as Shojin Ryori (vegetarian cuisine). Shojin Ryori means "abstinence from the enjoyment of fine food" and is a type of cuisine that uses only plant-based foods such as vegetables and grains for cooking, without using any animal products. Famous dishes include soba noodles and sesame tofu. There are also shopping spots in the area, so you can enjoy souvenir hunting too!

History

Learn about the History of Mt. Hiei Enryaku-ji Temple

Mt. Hiei Enryaku-ji Temple is Japan's oldest temple, located at the summit of Mt. Hiei in Shiga Prefecture. Its origins date back to 782 in the early Heian period. The temple was founded by Saicho (also known as Dengyo Daishi) and is known as the head temple of the Tendai sect. Saicho introduced Tendai teachings from China and used them as the basis for creating the Tendai sect, a unique Japanese teaching. This sect teaches that all living beings have the potential to become Buddhas, and had a significant impact on Japan's Buddhist world. Enryaku-ji Temple then gained widespread support from the imperial court and nobility, and developed into a center for learning and the arts. Additionally, the temple's geographical location was a strategic point connecting Kyoto and the western part of Lake Biwa, and was historically a place of political influence. However, Enryaku-ji Temple has suffered several destructions due to wars throughout history, and has been rebuilt each time. Many of the current buildings date back to the 17th century and beyond. Today, it is an important place for tourists and pilgrims to visit due to its rich history, cultural heritage, and natural environment.