Complete Guide to Eigenji Temple (Shiga Prefecture, Higashi-Ohmi City) | Famous Autumn Leaves Spot, History, and Visiting Information
Nestled in the quiet Aichigawa Gorge at the foot of the Suzuka Mountains in Higashi-Ohmi City, Shiga Prefecture, Eigenji Temple is a historic temple known as the head temple of the Rinzai Sect Eigenji School. Founded during the period of the Northern and Southern Courts, this historic temple is particularly famous throughout Japan as a renowned autumn leaves viewing spot. This article provides detailed information about Eigenji Temple’s history, highlights of the temple grounds, visiting information, and access methods—everything you should know before your visit.
About Eigenji Temple
Eigenji Temple (永源寺) is located at Eigenji Takano-cho, Higashi-Ohmi City, Shiga Prefecture, and serves as the head temple of the Rinzai Sect Eigenji School. The temple’s mountain name is Zuisekisan, and its main object of worship is Kannon Bodhisattva (the Successive Generation Kannon). Founded in Kouan 1 (1361) during the period of the Northern and Southern Courts, this temple boasts a history of over 660 years. Supported by the blessings of nature and the wisdom of the people, it stands as an ancient temple of Buddhist tradition and high status that has marked eternal time in the Lake East region of Omi.
Eigenji Temple, with its temple buildings positioned in a quiet mountain overlooking the Aichigawa Gorge, is surrounded by beautiful nature that changes with the four seasons. Particularly during autumn’s fall foliage season, the entire temple grounds are brilliantly colored, making it one of the premier fall foliage viewing spots in the Kansai region, attracting numerous pilgrims and tourists.
History of Eigenji Temple
Founding and Establishment
The history of Eigenji Temple began in Kouan 1 (1361) during the period of the Northern and Southern Courts. Sasaki Ujiyori, a territorial lord of Omi, welcomed the Zen Master Jyakushitsu Genko (the Zhengdeng National Master) as the temple’s founder and constructed the temple buildings.
Zen Master Jyakushitsu Genko was renowned as a high priest of great virtue at that time, and it is said that more than 2,000 training monks from throughout Japan gathered to study his teachings. At its peak, the temple possessed 56 subtemples within the mountains and flourished as a major center of Zen Buddhism in Omi. Since its founding, many nobles and warriors became devoted believers and supported the temple’s development.
Trials and Restoration During the Warring States Period
After its establishment, Eigenji Temple developed smoothly, but faced major trials during the Warring States period. The temple suffered tragedy when many buildings were burned down in repeated conflicts. However, the temple continued efforts to rebuild, and with the arrival of the Edo period, opportunities for restoration arose.
Particularly important was the patronage the temple received from Emperor Gomizunoo and Tofukumon-in. With support from the imperial court, reconstruction of the temple buildings progressed, establishing the foundation for the temple that continues to the present day.
Establishment of the Rinzai Sect Eigenji School
Eigenji Temple now serves as the head temple of the Rinzai Sect Eigenji School, standing as the central institution of a sect with branch temples throughout the nation. While preserving the Zen traditions handed down since its founding, the temple continues to gather the faith of many people in modern times, serving as a spiritual refuge.
Every October 1st, the Founder’s Memorial Service is solemnly conducted, honoring the virtuous legacy of Zen Master Jyakushitsu Genko, the temple’s founder, with important ceremonies to continue his teachings.
Highlights of the Temple Grounds
The temple grounds of Eigenji blend historic structures with beautiful nature, deeply moving those who visit. Here we introduce the main highlights.
The Path from the Outer Gate to the Mountain Gate
The first step in visiting Eigenji begins by passing through the outer gate. The path from the outer gate to the mountain gate is a beautiful walkway lined with trees on both sides, and particularly during the fall foliage season, it becomes a spectacular viewing spot called the “Maple Tunnel.”
When autumn arrives, this path is colored in fiery reds and yellows, inviting visitors to another world. Walking along the path, one gradually leaves behind the noise of daily life, experiencing the sensation of the heart becoming calm.
Mountain Gate (Designated Shiga Prefecture Cultural Asset)
Progressing along the path, the mountain gate appears—an important structure designated as a Shiga Prefecture cultural asset. Passing through this gate marks the formal entry into Eigenji Temple’s grounds. The dignified appearance of the mountain gate speaks to the high status of this temple.
Main Hall (Abbot’s Quarters)
The main hall of Eigenji, which serves as the temple’s center, is a reed-thatched building among the largest of its kind in Japan. Within this hall is enshrined the main object of worship, the “Successive Generation Kannon.” The Successive Generation Kannon is known to grant benefits for fertility and safe childbirth and is venerated as a secret Buddha to which many worshippers offer prayers.
The interior of the main hall is enveloped in a solemn atmosphere, making it an ideal space for sitting in meditation or conducting peaceful worship. The reed-thatched roof requires regular maintenance, but by continuing to preserve traditional construction methods, the temple retains the appearance it had at its founding.
Founder’s Hall
The Founder’s Hall is a building dedicated to Zen Master Jyakushitsu Genko, the founder of Eigenji Temple. As a place to honor the master’s virtuous legacy and learn his teachings, it continues to be visited by many training monks and pilgrims. Within the serene atmosphere of the Founder’s Hall, one can touch the spirit of Zen.
Nature and Gardens of the Temple Grounds
The temple grounds of Eigenji are surrounded by the rich nature of the Aichigawa Gorge. The grounds display different faces with each season—spring greenery, summer deep green, autumn foliage, and winter snow scenes—captivating all who visit.
Particularly, the maple trees scattered throughout the grounds display magnificent fall foliage in autumn, with the entire temple grounds colored like a brocade painting. There are spectacular foliage viewing points throughout the grounds, including around the main hall and near the Founder’s Hall, making them perfect for photography.
Cultural Assets of Eigenji Temple
Eigenji Temple preserves numerous valuable cultural assets that have been handed down through its long history.
Important Cultural Properties
Important cultural properties held by Eigenji Temple include Buddhist statues and ancient documents. These are valuable materials that tell the story of the temple’s history and hold important significance in researching Japanese Buddhist culture and the development of Zen Buddhism.
Shiga Prefecture Designated Cultural Assets
Including the aforementioned mountain gate, multiple structures and artworks are designated as cultural assets of Shiga Prefecture and are carefully protected as regional cultural heritage.
Eigenji Temple as a Famous Autumn Leaves Viewing Spot
Eigenji Temple is known nationwide as “The Autumn Leaves of Eigenji” and annually draws many tourists as one of the premier fall foliage viewing spots in the Kansai region.
Best Time for Viewing Autumn Leaves
The best time to view fall foliage at Eigenji Temple is typically from mid-November to late November. Since the timing of color change varies depending on elevation and location, visitors can enjoy beautiful autumn leaves over approximately two weeks.
Special Viewing During Autumn Leaves Season
During the autumn leaves season (November), visiting hours are extended beyond normal times. The usual 9:00-16:00 visiting hours are extended to 8:00-17:00 in November, allowing more time to enjoy the fall foliage. Additionally, light-up illuminations are held in late November, with some days extending viewing hours to as late as 20:00.
During the nighttime illumination, visitors can enjoy a completely different, magical landscape of autumn leaves. Illuminated foliage shines like flames, providing visitors with unforgettable memories.
Autumn Leaves Photography Spots
- The path from the outer gate to the mountain gate: A spectacular viewing point known as the Maple Tunnel
- Around the mountain gate: A collaboration of historic architecture and autumn leaves
- The garden in front of the main hall: Harmony of a maintained garden and fall foliage
- Viewpoints overlooking the Aichigawa Gorge: Enjoy both gorge beauty and fall foliage
Major Annual Events
Eigenji Temple conducts various Buddhist ceremonies throughout the year.
Founder’s Memorial Service (October 1st)
The Founder’s Memorial Service, held annually on October 1st, is an important Buddhist ritual honoring the virtuous legacy of Zen Master Jyakushitsu Genko, the temple’s founder. Monks from Eigenji School temples throughout the nation gather, and solemn ceremonies are conducted.
Other Major Events
- New Year’s First Visit: Attracts worshippers praying for happiness in the new year
- Flower Festival (April 8th): Celebrates the birth of Buddha
- Obon Memorial Service (August): Conducts memorial services for ancestors
- New Year’s Eve Bell Ringing (December 31st): A traditional event welcoming the new year
Visiting Information
Visiting Hours
- Regular Period (January–October, December): 9:00–16:00
- Autumn Leaves Period (November): 8:00–17:00 (Late November has light-up illuminations extending hours to as late as 20:00 on certain days)
※Visiting hours may change; please confirm official information before your visit.
Admission Fee
For admission fee information, please contact Eigenji Temple’s official website or call. Fees may differ between the autumn leaves season and other periods.
Location and Inquiries
- Address: 〒527-0212 Eigenji Takano-cho, Higashi-Ohmi City, Shiga Prefecture, Japan
- Phone: 0748-27-0016
Access Methods
Access by Public Transportation
Using Ohmi Railway
- Get off at “Youkaichi Station” on the Ohmi Railway
- From Youkaichi Station, take a bus for approximately 35 minutes to “Eigenji-mae” Bus Stop
- A short walk from the bus stop
During the autumn leaves season, additional temporary buses may be added. However, since crowding is expected, we recommend allowing plenty of time for your visit.
Access by Car
Using the Meishin Expressway
- Approximately 20 minutes from Youkaichi IC
- Approximately 15 minutes from Kotou-Sanzan Smart IC
Surrounding roads become very congested during the autumn leaves season. Especially on weekends and holidays, we recommend visiting early in the morning.
Parking Lot
There are multiple parking lots around Eigenji Temple, but they often become full during the autumn leaves season. We recommend also considering public transportation. Please confirm the latest parking information before your visit.
Tourist Spots Around Eigenji Temple
Aichigawa Gorge
The Aichigawa Gorge surrounding Eigenji Temple is a spot where visitors can enjoy beautiful natural scenery. A walking path is also developed along the gorge, allowing visitors to enjoy hiking.
Lake East Three Mountains
Within a 30-minute drive from Eigenji Temple are the “Lake East Three Mountains,” comprising Saimyoji, Kongourin-ji, and Baekjedae temples, also known as premier autumn leaves viewing spots. Visiting together with Eigenji Temple allows you to fully enjoy Shiga Prefecture’s fall foliage.
Eigenji Hot Spring
Hot spring facilities are located around Eigenji Temple, allowing visitors to leisurely relax and recover after their visit.
Points to Note When Visiting Eigenji Temple
Clothing and Items to Bring
- The temple grounds have many slopes and stairs; we recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes
- November, during the autumn leaves season, has cool mornings and evenings; please bring a jacket
- A camera or binoculars will allow you to better enjoy the autumn leaves and nature
Temple Visiting Etiquette
- Eigenji Temple is currently an active training temple. Please maintain silence and be considerate of other worshippers
- Photography is permitted, but there are areas where photography is prohibited, such as inside the main hall; please follow posted guidelines
- Be sure to take all trash with you and help maintain the beauty of the temple grounds
Tips for Avoiding Crowds
The autumn leaves season is particularly crowded. The following time slots are relatively less crowded:
- Weekday mornings (shortly after opening)
- Late afternoon near closing time
- Shortly after nighttime illumination begins
How to Deeply Experience Eigenji Temple’s Appeal
Zazen Meditation Experience
Depending on the season, Eigenji Temple may offer zazen meditation experiences and other training experiences. By directly touching the spirit of Zen, you can gain a deeper understanding of the essence of Eigenji Temple. For details, please inquire at the temple.
Temple Seal (Goshuin)
Visitors can receive a goshuin (temple seal) at Eigenji Temple. We recommend bringing a goshuin book as a memento of your visit and to cherish your connection with the temple.
Visiting in Each Season
While Eigenji Temple is famous for its autumn foliage, it displays different beauty in each season—spring greenery, summer deep green, and winter snow scenes. This is a temple where you will find new discoveries with each visit.
Conclusion
Eigenji Temple in Higashi-Ohmi City, Shiga Prefecture, is the head temple of the Rinzai Sect Eigenji School with a history spanning over 660 years since the period of the Northern and Southern Courts. Founded by Zen Master Jyakushitsu Genko, it developed while receiving the devotion of many high priests, nobles, and warriors.
Having overcome the trial of destruction by fire during the Warring States period, Eigenji Temple was restored under the patronage of Emperor Gomizunoo and Tofukumon-in. It now retains strong traces of history in its temple buildings and grounds. With numerous highlights including the main hall enshrining the Successive Generation Kannon as the principal object of worship, the mountain gate designated as a Shiga Prefecture cultural asset, and the Founder’s Hall, there is much to see.
Particularly famous as a premier autumn leaves viewing spot nationwide, the entire temple grounds are brilliantly colored in November. The “Maple Tunnel” extending from the outer gate to the mountain gate is a must-see spectacular sight. Nighttime illuminations are also held, allowing visitors to enjoy the beauty of autumn leaves differently in day and night.
Embraced by the rich nature of the Aichigawa Gorge, Eigenji Temple is a temple worthy of visiting throughout all four seasons. It is conveniently located, accessible by bus from Youkaichi Station on the Ohmi Railway, and by car approximately 20 minutes from the Youkaichi IC on the Meishin Expressway.
Why not visit Eigenji Temple, where history, culture, and nature harmonize, to quietly touch the spirit of Zen and savor Japan’s traditional beauty?
