Shoshazan Engyo-ji Temple Himeji
A thousand-year-old Buddhist temple complex on a mountaintop, famous for 'The Last Samurai' and serene forest surroundings.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Lush green foliage, fewer crowds
Shoshazan Engyo-ji Temple Himeji
Best Time
Lush green foliage, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A thousand-year-old Buddhist temple complex on a mountaintop, famous for 'The Last Samurai' and serene forest surroundings.
"It feels like something straight out of a Ghibli film, offering a peaceful retreat."
🎟️ Temple & Shuttle Tickets
Purchase your temple entrance ticket (500 yen) and shuttle bus ticket (500 yen round trip) together for convenience.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential
You'll be doing a fair amount of walking, so wear comfortable shoes for exploring the temple grounds and trails.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Mani-den Hall
Mount Shosha Summit
A stunning wooden hall with a balcony, reminiscent of Kiyomizu-dera, offering serene views and a peaceful atmosphere.
Filming Location for 'The Last Samurai'
Various parts of the temple complex
Explore the grounds where Tom Cruise's epic film was shot, immersing yourself in the historical ambiance.
Mount Shosha Forest Trails
Surrounding the temple complex
Wander through tranquil woodland paths, enjoying the natural beauty and quietude of this ancient mountain setting.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Getting to the Mountaintop
Embrace the Hike (or Shuttle)
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Temple & Shuttle Tickets
Purchase your temple entrance ticket (500 yen) and shuttle bus ticket (500 yen round trip) together for convenience.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential
You'll be doing a fair amount of walking, so wear comfortable shoes for exploring the temple grounds and trails.
💧 Stay Hydrated in Summer
Summer can get hot and humid; remember to drink plenty of water and wear a hat.
🚶♂️ Hike or Shuttle Option
Choose between a scenic 20-minute hike or a convenient shuttle bus to reach the main temple complex.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Temple & Shuttle Tickets
Purchase your temple entrance ticket (500 yen) and shuttle bus ticket (500 yen round trip) together for convenience.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential
You'll be doing a fair amount of walking, so wear comfortable shoes for exploring the temple grounds and trails.
💧 Stay Hydrated in Summer
Summer can get hot and humid; remember to drink plenty of water and wear a hat.
🚶♂️ Hike or Shuttle Option
Choose between a scenic 20-minute hike or a convenient shuttle bus to reach the main temple complex.
📸 Capture the Views
The cable car ride offers scenic views of Himeji; don't forget your camera!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Shoshazan Engyo-ji Temple for its serene atmosphere, historical significance, and beautiful natural setting, often highlighting its role in 'The Last Samurai'. The journey via cable car and the peaceful trails are frequently mentioned as highlights, offering a tranquil escape. Some note that it can get warm in summer and recommend checking transport schedules.
"A temple complex on top of Mount Shosha. To reach the mountain top, you could either hike the mountain or ride the cable car. I chose the cable car (highly recommended), but there is still 15-20 minutes of inclined walking from the ropeway to the temple through a path surrounded by the forest. My corporate slave joints are complaining but my eyes and lungs are full of gratitude.
I went in late spring so there was no cherry blossoms or autumn leaves. However, the green foliage also felt so rewarding. The temple has a wooden stage which is like a balcony, similar to Kiyomizu-dera. There were not many visitors as well, making it perfect for a calm retreat. We could also explore the areas surrounding the main temple building."
Janice Lin
"Take bus 10 from Himeji Bus station to Ropeway stop to Engyoji Temple.
Scenic view of Himeji along the ropeway up to the temple.
Entrance ticket price is 500 yen.
I suggest walking up to Maniden and Daikodo-Jikodo-Jogyodo (Scenes of the Last Samurai movie by Tom Cruise) and taking the bus back to the ropeway (500 yen for both ways or one way. You can make paymemt by cash at the entrance or while boarding the bus). Nice place to spend a morning walk. It can get hot and warm in the later part of the day in summer so prepare to drink more water and wear a hat.
Check the timing of the ropeway and bus back to Himeji station.
You could also inform the driver if you would like to visit Kokoen Garden or Hemiji Castle as there is a bus stop outside Kokoen Garden.
This route is better as after visiting the castle, you will be nearer to Himeji main station and can get a late lunch along the streets."
Siew TF
"Wonderful despite the rain. Took the bus to the ropeway. Gondola takes 4 min. Paid 1000 yen (500 for temple and 500 for shuttle). You could walk 20 min instead of using the shuttle. You will need to remove your shoes to enter temples. Overall, it was nice and glad we had a guide."
Christa Dandoy
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Take bus number 8 from Himeji Station towards Mt. Shosha. The bus will take you to the ropeway station. From there, you can take the cable car up to the temple complex.
You can either hike up Mount Shosha, which takes about 20 minutes through a forest path, or take the ropeway (cable car). A shuttle bus is also available from the ropeway station to the main temple area.
The cable car ride up Mount Shosha takes approximately 4 minutes.
Yes, Shoshazan Engyo-ji Temple is an excellent day trip from Himeji. It can be combined with visits to Himeji Castle and Kokoen Garden.
No, you'll need to take bus #8 to the ropeway station, then the ropeway up the mountain. A shuttle bus operates from the ropeway station to the temple complex.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee for the temple is 500 yen. You may also need to pay for the shuttle bus service within the temple grounds.
Tickets can typically be purchased on-site at the temple entrance or at the ropeway station. It's advisable to check their official website for the most up-to-date ticketing information.
Often, you can purchase a combined ticket for the temple entrance and the shuttle bus service within the temple grounds. The ropeway ticket is usually separate.
Operating hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official website or local tourist information for the most current hours of operation for the temple and the ropeway.
Yes, you will need to remove your shoes before entering most of the temple buildings.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The temple complex features impressive wooden halls, serene forest paths, and beautiful natural scenery. It's also famous as a filming location for 'The Last Samurai'.
Absolutely. The temple's mountaintop location, surrounded by forest, and often fewer visitors create a very peaceful and tranquil atmosphere.
Yes, a service coaster is available at the entrance to help transport visitors to the main temple buildings.
Yes, there are woodland pathways and trails surrounding the main temple buildings that offer a chance to explore the natural beauty of Mount Shosha.
Yes, there is a vegetarian restaurant where you can taste udon noodles.
📸 📸 Photography
The Mani-den hall with its wooden stage, the serene forest paths, and the panoramic views from the mountaintop are excellent for photography.
Photography rules can vary. It's best to observe signage within the temple buildings or ask temple staff if you are unsure.
Mornings generally offer softer light and fewer crowds, while autumn afternoons can be stunning with the colorful foliage.
The massive wooden structures, intricate roof designs, and the overall integration of the temple with the natural landscape make for striking photographs.
Drone usage is typically restricted at religious sites to maintain peace and respect. It's highly unlikely to be permitted.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider bringing snacks and drinks, especially during warmer months, as facilities might be limited. The shuttle bus service is a great option to help little legs navigate the temple grounds without getting too tired.
🚶♂️ Solo Travelers & Hikers
The temple's serene atmosphere is perfect for introspection and enjoying the quiet beauty of the surroundings. Taking the bus and ropeway is straightforward, and the temple complex is easy to navigate. You can spend a good few hours exploring the various halls and trails at your own pace.
📸 Photographers & Anime Fans
Fans of 'Demon Slayer' might recognize the atmospheric vibes, as some creators have drawn parallels between the temple's serene, mountainous setting and the world of the anime.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The 'Last Samurai' Connection
Specifically, the Mani-den hall and the Daikodo-Jikodo-Jogyodo buildings were heavily featured. Walking through these areas, you can almost picture the samurai training and dramatic moments from the film. This connection draws many fans of the movie to the temple, adding another layer of appeal to its already rich historical and spiritual significance.
Navigating Mount Shosha
For the more adventurous or those seeking a deeper connection with nature, a hike up the mountain is also an option. This trail winds through the forest and takes approximately 20 minutes. Once you reach the top, a shuttle bus service operates within the temple complex, connecting the ropeway station to the main temple buildings like the Mani-den. This shuttle is particularly useful for visitors who wish to conserve energy or have mobility concerns.
It's crucial to check the operating hours for both the bus from Himeji Station and the ropeway, as they can vary. Planning your ascent and descent accordingly will ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit.
A Thousand Years of History
+1The temple complex is spread across Mount Shosha, comprising around twenty buildings nestled within the ancient forest. Unlike many reconstructed castles and shrines, Engyo-ji retains a remarkably natural and well-maintained atmosphere, offering a glimpse into Japan's spiritual heritage.
Its historical significance is palpable, with visitors often describing the atmosphere as serene and almost otherworldly, feeling like a place from a Ghibli film.
This enduring legacy makes it a profound destination for those interested in Japanese culture and history.
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