The Main Temple of Engō-ji, Mani-den, is dedicated to Roppi Nyoirin Kanzeon Bosatsu. The building, which was originally constructed in 970, burned down in 1921 and was reconstructed in 1933. The current temple combines traditional architecture with a more modern style and is designated Hyōgo Prefectural Cultural Property.
The Three Halls (Dai-ko-do, Jiki-do and Jōgyōdō complex) are some of the most recognisable sites from the Hollywood movie, The Last Samurai, as well as many domestic movie productions. They are also designated as nationally important cultural property.
Dai-ko-do, the main hall, serves as the lecture hall where lectures and debates on the scriptures were held during the study and training period of priests.
Jiki-do was the equivalent of a student dormitory today. This is where the priests in training studied, ate and slept. The present building, which is more than 40 metres long, was built in the 15th century.
Jōgyōdō is the hall in which priests trained by chanting the name of Amida Buddha while walking around the main image. The famous warrior monk Benkei is said to have trained here.
SOURCES:
- Himeji Tourist Guide & Map
- Information signs on Mount Shosha
- https://www.japan-guide.com/e/e3503.html
- https://www.jnto.go.jp/eng/spot/shritemp/shoshazanengyoji.html
- http://www.shosha.or.jp/_en/
- https://www.samuraitours.com/engyoji-temple/
