Temple · Himeji (Mount Shosha)
Engyoji Temple (Mount Shosha) 圓教寺
Thousand-year-old Tendai mountain temple reached by ropeway from Himeji, known for its pillared Maniden hall and appearances in The Last Samurai.
Hours8:30-18:00 (closing varies seasonally)
PriceAdmission (excluding ropeway): ¥800
Getting thereJR Himeji Station, Shinki bus no. 8 to Shosha Ropeway (about 30 min)
Time needed2-3 hours
Best timeNovember autumn leaves
Address2968 Shosha, Himeji, Hyogo 671-2201
Websiteshosha.or.jp
About
Engyoji was founded in 966 and spreads through dense forest on Mount Shosha. The Maniden, built on tall pillars against a slope, and the three large halls of the Mitsunodo courtyard are its highlights. The temple was a filming location for The Last Samurai, and it is about 30 minutes from Himeji by bus and ropeway.
Highlights
- Maniden hall on wooden stilts
- Mitsunodo: three great halls around a courtyard
- Forest walk from the ropeway
- Temple lodging and zazen experiences
Tips
- Ropeway closes for maintenance for a period in winter; check before going
- A minibus links the ropeway top and Maniden
- Wear comfortable shoes for stone paths
Open in Google Maps · Info checked 2026-10-11
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