Enryu-ji Temple

Overview

Enryu-ji Temple is a Rinzai sect Kencho-ji branch temple located in Chichibu City, Saitama Prefecture. It's the 26th temple on the Chichibu pilgrimage route. While the exact founding date is unknown, it's believed to have been established in the late Heian period based on its attribution to Shigeyoshi Hatakeyama. The temple grounds hold valuable historical sites and cultural assets, including a stone swallow's nest offering and the spot where Kagekiyo broke his horn. The stone swallow's nest offering was erected by the Kamakura-era warrior Shigetada Hatakeyama to comfort the spirit of his son who died in battle during the subjugation of the Fujiwara clan in Oshu. The site where Kagekiyo broke his horn commemorates the Heike warrior, Kagekiyo Taira, who, captured by Minamoto no Yoshitsune, is said to have killed himself here. Furthermore, the inner sanctuary, Iwai-do, is inaccessible directly; one must exit the main hall and pass through the grounds of Resonac Chichibu Plant to reach it. Iwai-do was built to honor the spirit of the Heian-era monk, Ennin, who practiced asceticism in this area. Enryu-ji Temple offers a precious opportunity to experience the history and culture of the Chichibu Road. We highly recommend a visit.