What other travelers are saying about Eigenji Temple
You can park at Private parking lot near the red bridge or Temple parking in another side of the gate. The parking fee is 500 yen and entrance fee is 500 yen per person. At the autumn time, view is so gorgeous. I have been there on Sunday. It’s not too crowded but still have tourist there. Most of tourists are Japanese. I meet only some Asian tourists and less white tourist. They also have illumination at the night.
(Trip was made back then on 25 Nov 2019, 2 years before the Covid-19 Pandemic hit)
Can’t believe it’s been exactly 2 years since we have visited this magnificent place.
During the planning stages, I initially thought it was going to be tedious to get to, having to take a train to a random quiet town, then switching to bus which Google maps said would take another 47 minutes to reach.
Was all this really worth it? Well, we took a gamble and went for it. When we arrived and saw the magnificent view, we knew that our risk had paid off.
If you thought Ishiyamadera Temple was beautiful, wait till you see Eigenji Temple. The temple feels like it’s basking in the sun’s golden rays, surrounded by rich vibrant shades of orange, yellow and red.
It is famous for its beautiful autumn coloured leaves, thanks to the 3000 maple trees found within the temple grounds.
It comes as no surprise that the temple is as one of Japan’s 100 grand autumn foliage sites. It’s a place I can definitely fall in love with.
The autumn foliage is so magnificent that you could stay here for hours admiring its beauty. There was so much to soak in that we were glued here for 3 hours.
Really miss this experience and I would definitely do it in a heartbeat given the chance.
Note:
1. The train journey wasn’t too difficult (granted, we were already stationed at Omihachiman). Just need to take the local train to Yokaichi Station.
2. If you’re lucky like us, a helpful bus conductor will help issue a 1 day pass at the train ticket counter, which covers the train and bus fares. This helps you to save more rather than paying for the train and bus fares individually.
3. Taking the bus wasn’t too daunting either. There are 3 bus stops just on the left exit of the station and the bus heading for Eigen-ji is bus stop no.1. The only problem is knowing when the bus arrives and departs. The bus ride itself took about 35mins.
4. Apparently, morning was the worst time to go as there’s tonnes of local tour groups, all elderly, swarming the place(think of it as our local CC grassroots activities). The place gets quiet and empty by 12 noon, so on hindsight it would have been better to come in the afternoon.
**No goshuincho at this time due to COVID**
We missed the fall season where the maple leaves really pop out through the temple. But the snow that falls throughout the temple grounds still brings beauty.
Parking is right across the red bridge across from the Eigen-hi tourist info booth. It was very empty when we visited.
Eigen-ji Temple, nestled in the serene landscape of Higashiomi, Shiga, Japan, holds a rich history dating back to its establishment in 1361 by Kokai, a disciple of the famous Zen master, Muso Soseki. The temple's name, 永源寺, translates to "Temple of Eternal Spring," reflecting its connection to nature and spiritual renewal.
Throughout the centuries, Eigen-ji has endured various reconstructions, with its current structures showcasing traditional Japanese architecture. The temple is renowned for its stunning gardens, featuring cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn, creating a captivating backdrop for meditation and contemplation.
Eigen-ji is a pivotal center for the Soto Zen sect, attracting practitioners seeking tranquility and enlightenment. Visitors can explore the main hall, pagoda, and tea houses while experiencing the Zen philosophy embedded in every aspect of the temple. Eigen-ji remains a timeless testament to Japan's cultural and spiritual heritage.
The most popular time to visit Eigenji Temple is from mid-November to early December during the autumn foliage season, when the temple's 3,000 maple trees display vibrant red and gold colors. However, the temple is open year-round and offers peaceful mountain scenery in every season. Spring brings fresh greenery, while summer provides cool shade under the maple canopy. Visitors seeking a quieter experience should consider visiting outside the peak autumn period.
Eigenji Temple is located in a remote mountain area with limited public transportation access. The nearest major station is Hikone Station, but there is no direct bus service to the temple. Visitors relying on public transport typically need to take a taxi from the nearest station, which can be costly. Renting a car is the most practical option, with the temple located approximately 40 minutes from Yokaichi IC on the Meishin Expressway or 50 minutes by car from Hikone Station.
Standard admission to Eigenji Temple is approximately 500 yen for adults. However, entrance fees may increase during the peak autumn foliage season when special viewing events and evening illuminations are held. Children typically receive discounted admission. Visitors should check current pricing before their visit, especially if planning to attend during November when the temple experiences its highest visitor numbers.
Photography is generally permitted in the outdoor areas of Eigenji Temple, including the gardens and maple tree pathways. The temple is particularly popular among photographers during autumn due to its spectacular foliage displays. However, photography restrictions may apply inside certain temple buildings or sacred areas. Visitors should look for posted signs or ask temple staff about specific photography rules, especially regarding flash photography and commercial use.
Visitors should wear comfortable walking shoes suitable for steep mountain paths and uneven terrain. The temple's elevated location means temperatures are typically cooler than surrounding areas, so bringing an extra layer is advisable, particularly during autumn and winter visits. During peak autumn season, the temple can become crowded, so arriving early is recommended. Parking is available on-site, but spaces may fill quickly during popular viewing periods. Those visiting for photography should consider bringing tripods for capturing the foliage and temple architecture.
