Engyo-ji Temple

Engyo-ji Temple is a Tendai Buddhist complex spread across the forested summit of Mount Shosha, founded 966 AD by the monk Shoku. Sometimes called the 'Mini Kyoto of the West,' with Maniden Hall, the three-storied Jikido dining hall, and Daikodo lecture hall—all connected by forest paths. The temple gained international fame as a filming location for the 2003 'Last Samurai' movie with Tom Cruise; it's also appeared in Japanese period dramas. Visitors reach the temple via Mount Shosha Ropeway, a 4-minute ride with views of Himeji and the Seto Inland Sea. From there, 20-minute walk through forest to main buildings (or shuttle bus). Good autumn foliage. Temple offers zazen meditation and sutra copying experiences.