Ennin's Diary

More about the book

The diary of Ennin, a 9th-century Japanese Buddhist monk, provides a vivid account of his journey to China in search of religious texts and enlightenment. It captures the challenges of sea travel and his extensive explorations through Northern China, offering rich descriptions of life in T'ang China, including cities, monasteries, and cultural events. Ennin's observations highlight Buddhism's peak in China and document the significant religious persecution of the 840s, marking a pivotal moment in Chinese history.