# Engyo-ji Temple

> A sprawling 1000-year-old temple complex atop Mount Shosha, famous as a filming location for 'The Last Samurai' and accessible by scenic ropeway.

- Prefecture: Hyogo
- Type: Temple
- Address: Himeji, Hyogo, Japan
- Admission: 500 yen
- Official site: https://www.shosha.or.jp/

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,' it has 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.

## FAQ

### How do I get to Engyo-ji Temple?

From JR Himeji Station, take Shinki Bus #8 to the Mount Shosha Ropeway base station (about 30 minutes), then ride the 4-minute ropeway up. From the upper station you can walk 20 minutes through the forest or take a small shuttle bus (also called Manidenshi-mae bus) to the main halls. Free parking is available at the ropeway base if you drive.

### When is the best time to visit Engyo-ji Temple?

Mid-November for autumn foliage is the standout, when the entire forested mountain turns red and gold around the wooden halls. Spring (April) is also lovely with cherry blossoms and fresh greenery. Mornings are quietest; the temple's mountain setting stays cool even in summer. Allow 3 hours minimum because the complex is spread out.

### What does it cost to visit Engyo-ji Temple?

Temple admission is 500 yen for adults. The Shosha Ropeway costs 1,000 yen round trip. A combined ticket covering both ropeway and temple entry is available at the base station and saves a few hundred yen. The optional micro-bus from the upper station to the main halls is 500 yen round trip; many visitors prefer the 20-minute forest walk.

### Where can I eat at Engyo-ji Temple?

The Hazuki tea house near Maniden Hall serves udon, soba, and light meals in a forest setting. The shukubo (temple lodging) offers traditional Buddhist vegetarian cuisine (shojin ryori) to overnight guests, which can also be reserved for lunch in advance. Otherwise, eat in central Himeji before or after, as there are no other dining options on the mountain.

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Source: Engyo-ji Temple — Japan Voyage