EPISODE 05Individuals Associated with Chisho Daishi Enchin

As Head of the Tendai Order, Enchin inherited and propagated the teachings of Dengyo Daishi Saicho, tirelessly spreading Tendai doctrines to many others, . He had the patronage of Fujiwara no Yoshifusa and his son Mototsune, forming close relationships with Emperor Seiwa and leading contemporary literati such as Miyoshi Kiyoyuki and Fujiwara no Sukeyo, both the professors at the governmental institution. These noble officials were particularly important for Enchin's journey to Tang China, ensuring he could receive a certificate of his Japanese priestly rank from the Ministry of Central Affairs written on the special figured silk, and later, an official recognition by Department of State about his teachings back in Japan.

There is also a group of historical materials that demonstrates a deep connection between Enchin and significant figures within the Tendai Order, including Henjo, one of the six poetry immortals called Rokkasen, Encho and Ennin who would become heads of the order, and Tokuen, among other monks who were disciples of Dengyo Daishi Saicho in the early days of Mt. Hiei and those who were under guidance of Dochu in the Kanto region.

Throughout his later years, Enchin maintained close exchanges with Tang monks, officials, and merchants he met on his journey. Chinese merchants, in particular, played a role in exchanging information and fulfilling Enchin's requests for scriptures, acting as intermediaries to deliver inquiries for Chinese monks regarding the doctrines, and bridging the gap between Japan and China. Their activities are evident in collections of Enchin’s questions regarding the doctrines and his letters to Zhìhui Lun Sanzang 智慧輪三蔵, as well as farewell poems and letters exchanged with these merchants. Notably, Enchin continued a close relationship with Xu Zhi 徐直, a Suzhou official who cared for Enchin during his illness en route to Chang'an. They exchanged private letters and gifts after Enchin’s return to Japan, highlighting his gratitude toward Xu Zhi.