This paper researches the reason why the Zenrin-ji Yamagoshi Amidazu was painted. Shōkū and his pupils influenced Zenrin-ji. Although he is one of the most important persons in the Pure Land sect, he was also influenced by Tendai Hongaku philosophy. The painting shows that Amitābha is waiting for people in a mountain. It indicates that the Pure Land is in the mountain (this impure land). In addition, the scene includes both cherry blossoms and autumn leaves, which lead to timelessness and the Pure Land. These expressions might be affected by Tendai Hongaku philosophy, which claims that this impure land is the Pure Land. Moreover, two young boys (dōji) who hold flags in the painting might be influenced by the Mukaekō in Taima temple, a ritual enacting the raigō or visitation by Amida, which Shōkū supported. This temple was related to mountain worship which believes that the next world is located in the mountains. Considering these situations, this painting was influenced by Shōkū and Tendai Hongaku philosophy.
