The Marathon Monks of Mount Hiei

Focusing on the extraordinary training of Japan's marathon monks, this book delves into their rigorous seven-year journey on Mount Hiei, where they run incredible distances to attain enlightenment. These "running buddhas" complete a grueling 100-day challenge, covering 52.5 miles each day—double the Olympic marathon distance. The narrative highlights their unique blend of physical endurance and spiritual pursuit, showcasing a path to enlightenment that transcends traditional athletic achievements.