🗺️ Mount Hiei Enryaku-ji天台宗総本山 比叡山延暦寺

Mount Hiei, at an elevation of 848 meters, is entirely within the grounds of Enryaku-ji, a vast temple founded by the founder of the Tendai sect, Saichō, in 788. Historically, Enryaku-ji faced destruction when it clashed with Oda Nobunaga, resulting in the burning of its buildings. Later, it was restored through the cooperation of figures like Kannon-ji's Shōjun, Shiyaku-in's Zenjū, and the renowned monk Master Tenkai. As a significant site for Buddhist propagation, Enryaku-ji is revered as the "Mother of Japanese Buddhism" and has had a profound impact on the history of Buddhism in Japan. Over its more than 1,000 years of history, it has also served as a guardian of Kyoto and was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994. Enryaku-ji is divided into three areas: the East Pagoda, the West Pagoda, and Hōkawa, with over 100 halls and pagodas scattered across these regions. In the main area, the East Pagoda, there is the Enryaku-ji Main Hall, "Kembon-chūdō," which is designated as a national treasure. Inside, there is the "Eternal Flame," lit by Saichō, which is said to have burned continuously for nearly 1,200 years; the "National Treasure Hall" displays valuable artifacts such as Buddha statues, paintings, and calligraphy that have come from Enryaku-ji; the West Pagoda area features the oldest building of Enryaku-ji, the "Shaka-dō," which is also an important cultural asset; and in the Hōkawa area, there is the uniquely shaped main hall "Hōkawa-chūdō," as well as the "Shikikōdō," the origin of the fortune-telling "omikuji." As the entire Mount Hiei is a place of practice, there are many pilgrimage routes through the mountains, allowing visitors to experience the solemn atmosphere of Buddhism and its deep history while strolling in the tranquil nature. At each temple, visitors can receive a proof of their visit—"Goshuin," with a total of 11 different types available. If one visits on a "Yen-nichi," a day of connection with the Buddha, they can also receive a special edition of the Goshuin. Additionally, the natural scenery of Mount Hiei is quite rich, with cherry blossoms in spring and maple leaves in autumn, showcasing the beautiful changes of the four seasons in Japan.

At an elevation of 848 meters, the entire mountain is within the temple grounds. It offers views of the streets of Kyoto and Lake Biwa. The area is divided into three sections: East Pagoda, West Pagoda, and Yokokawa, and it takes nearly a day to complete a full circuit. Visitors can collect a total of 11 different goshuin (temple stamps). The beautiful natural scenery can be enjoyed throughout the four seasons. In Japan's religious history, Mount Hiei and Enryaku-ji Temple have produced many renowned monks.