The Sacred and Serene Journey to Enryakuji Temple on Mount Hiei

Located on the border between Shiga Prefecture and Kyoto Prefecture in Japan, Mount Hiei is the birthplace of the Tendai sect of Japanese Buddhism. Enryakuji Temple, as its central temple, not only has a long history but also holds deep religious and cultural significance. As I set foot on this towering sacred mountain, I was filled with awe and anticipation. Its sacred atmosphere and secluded tranquility deeply attracted me. 1. Ascending Mount Hiei - Stepping Towards the Sacred The transportation to Mount Hiei is not complicated. You can choose to depart from Kyoto or Otsu and take the Hiei Electric Railway or the cable car. As the cable car crosses the valley and gradually ascends to the top of the mountain, a vast expanse of lush green forest unfolds before my eyes, as if entering a world isolated from the mundane. Along the way up the mountain, ancient temples and solemn buildings can be seen everywhere, harmoniously blending with the natural scenery, showcasing a beautiful coexistence of humanity and nature. Every time I passed by a small Zen temple, the clear sound of bells and the chanting of monks echoed in my ears, making me feel an indescribable peace. 2. Enryakuji Temple - Witnessing the Historical Buddhist Sanctuary Enryakuji Temple was founded by the monk Saicho in 788 AD and has a history of over a thousand years. It is not only the birthplace of the Tendai sect but also a Buddhist sanctuary that attracts countless believers and tourists for pilgrimage and worship. Great Lecture Hall The Great Lecture Hall of Enryakuji Temple is one of its main halls, with a magnificent exterior and housing a statue of Shakyamuni Buddha. Stepping into the Great Lecture Hall, the serene atmosphere slows down one's pace, filling the heart with reverence for the Dharma. The carvings, paintings, and ancient Buddha statues inside and outside the hall convey a profound religious culture. Konpon Chudo Konpon Chudo is one of the oldest and most important buildings of Enryakuji Temple and the religious core of the Tendai sect. The architectural structure here is very simple, yet it exudes immense solemnity and sanctity. Every visitor who comes here unconsciously bows their head, experiencing the tranquility and sanctity of Buddhism. The Training Ground of the Thousand-Day Circumambulation Practice Mount Hiei is not only a destination for tourists but also a place for monks to practice. It is said that the Thousand-Day Circumambulation Practice is an extremely rigorous training method, requiring monks to walk around the major temples of Mount Hiei and practice for several years. Whenever I think of how these practitioners spent their arduous years on this sacred mountain, I am filled with respect. 3. The Natural Beauty of Mount Hiei - The Fresh Air of the Sacred Mountain Mount Hiei not only has profound religious culture but is also a paradise for hiking enthusiasts. Stepping out from the various temples of Enryakuji, the scenery at the top of the mountain is spectacular. In spring, cherry blossoms bloom all over the mountain; in summer, the trees are lush; in autumn, the leaves are fiery red; and in winter, the mountain is covered with white snow. The changing seasons present mesmerizing views. A Panoramic View from the Mountain Top Standing at the top of Mount Hiei, looking out, Lake Biwa appears like a giant mirror, reflecting the blue sky and white clouds. The distant Kyoto and Otsu cities are faintly visible in the hazy distance. These magnificent views make one feel refreshed, as if all worries are blown away by the wind. Ancient Forest Paths and Hiking Trails The hiking trails of Mount Hiei are densely forested, and the winding paths are always intriguing. Walking on these ancient hiking trails, with towering ancient trees on both sides, sunlight filtering through the leaves casting dappled shadows, each step brings a more peaceful state of mind. These trails are not only suitable for meditation but also an excellent place for close contact with nature. 4. Zen Meditation and Quiet Sitting - Time for Inner Dialogue At Mount Hiei, you can not only enjoy the magnificent natural scenery but also experience local Zen meditation activities. Many temples offer short-term Zen meditation experiences, giving visitors the opportunity to meditate and sit quietly in a serene environment. Zen Meditation Experience During the Zen meditation course, I sat on a Zen cushion with other visitors, closed my eyes, focused my attention, and immersed myself in the surrounding tranquility. Time seemed to stand still, leaving only a dialogue with my inner self. This period of quiet meditation not only brought relaxation to my body and mind but also gave me a deeper understanding of Buddhist practice. 5. Conclusion - The Spiritual Journey to Enryakuji Temple on Mount Hiei Mount Hiei's Enryakuji Temple is not only a religious sanctuary but also a place for spiritual reflection and finding inner peace. Whether it is its history, architecture, natural scenery, or the Zen meditation experience, I felt a profound power on this sacred land. If you seek tranquility in the midst of a busy life, Mount Hiei's Enryakuji Temple is undoubtedly a worthwhile spiritual retreat.