Hieizan Enryaku-ji (Enryaku-ji Temple on Mount Hiei)
ひえいざんえんりゃくじ
The head temple of the Tendai Sect, founded by Saicho. It is a World Heritage site known for 1,200 years as the 'Mother Mountain of Japanese Buddhism'.
Overview
The origins date back to 788 CE (Enryaku 7), when Saicho established the Ichijo Shokan-in on Mount Hiei. As the head temple of the Tendai Sect, it produced the founders of Kamakura New Buddhism, including Honen, Shinran, Dogen, Enni, and Nichiren, earning it the title 'Mother Mountain of Japanese Buddhism'. It was registered as a World Heritage site in 1994 as part of 'Historic<image|> Sites of Kyoto'. The grounds are divided into three main areas: Todo (East Tower), Saito (West Tower), and Yokawa. In the Konpon Chudo (National Treasure) of the East Tower, the 'Eternal Dharma Flame' lit by Saicho has burned continuously for 1,200 years.
Enshrined deity / legend
Yakushi Nyorai (Main deity of Konpon Chudo)
Highlights
- ・National Treasure Konpon Chudo and the 'Eternal Dharma Flame' (1,200 years)
- ・The three towers: Todo, Saito, and Yokawa
- ・Training grounds of the Kamakura New Buddhism founders
- ・Stunning views from the Hieizan Driveway
Details may change. Please check official sources before visiting.