Engyoji Temple

Ascend Mount Shosha in a window-walled ropeway gondola, the most scenic means to reach the spectacular Buddhist temple at the top. The higher the altitude, the better that the views will be of the Himeji metropolis and beyond. Upon arriving at the summit, you will follow a winding mountain path to Engyoji, a temple founded more than 1,000 years ago. It is one of 33 temples on Japan’s oldest pilgrimage route. Inside and around the grounds, you will see statues of Kannon, the six-armed Goddess of Mercy. Engyoji has changed so little over the centuries that it often serves as an atmospheric location for historical films, the most famous being “The Last Samurai,” which was nominated for four Oscars. While walking about the main hall, inner sanctuary and dormitory for monks in training, you will see artifacts that reveal much about Japanese life over the centuries.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Ride the ropeway up Mount Shosha and enjoy panoramic views along the way.
• Browse the Buddhist temple Engyogi that sits atop Mount Shosha.
• Discover the history of Engyogi, which lies on an ancient pilgrimage route.
• Enjoy the atmospheric setting of the temple, which was founded 1,000 years ago.