Shoshazan Engyoji Temple

Through this imposing gate, one enters the sacred ground of the Engyoji Temple complex and is the final point on the east hill temple approach.

Nio-zo, statues of two guardians of Buddhism, stand on both sides of the gate.

Dating from the beginning of the Edo period (1603-1868), it was reconstructed in 1665 (Kambun 5th yr).

The architectural style of this gate is called “Mitsu-mune-zukuri (a Three-ridge style) because this gate looks as if it has three ridges: two on the ceiling and one outside as the roof.

a Cultural Property designated by Hyogo Prefecture

Nio-zo / 仁王像

Nio-zo, statues of two guardians of Buddhism, stand on both sides of the gate.

Ah-zo (the statue with its mouth in “Ah”-form) is on the right, and Um-zo (the statue with its mouth closed in “Um”-form) on the left as viewed from the front.

They guard the sacred ground as a pair with Ah-Um-no-kokyu (perfect synchronization).

a Cultural Properties designated by Himeji City