Shigisan Chogosonshi Temple (Nara Prefecture) Complete Guide | History, Highlights, and Access of the Bishamonten Head Temple Thoroughly Explained
What is Shigisan Chogosonshi Temple?
Shigisan Chogosonshi Temple (信貴山朝護孫子寺) is a Shingon Buddhist temple located on the slopes of Mount Shigi, at an elevation of 437 meters in Heguricho, Ikoma County, Nara Prefecture. Its formal name is “Shigisan Chogosonshi Temple Kankiin,” and it serves as the head temple of Bishamonten worship, attracting numerous pilgrims from across the nation.
Bishamonten, one of the Seven Lucky Gods, is considered supreme in bestowing blessings and is said to provide benefits such as family safety, business prosperity, good fortune and longevity, and fulfillment of wishes. The expansive temple grounds are lined with numerous halls and structures, including the main hall, and house many national treasures and important cultural properties.
Mount Shigi is also a scenic spot with sweeping views of the Yamato Plain, and the landscape created by the interplay of seasonal nature and historical structures has become known as one of Nara Prefecture’s representative power spots.
History of Shigisan Chogosonshi Temple
Prince Shotoku and the Origins of Mount Shigi
The founding of Shigisan Chogosonshi Temple dates back approximately 1,400 years to the Asuka period. According to the Nihon Shoki, in 587 CE (the second year of Emperor Yomei’s reign), Prince Shotoku visited this mountain during his campaign to defeat Mononobe no Moriya.
As the prince prayed for victory, Bishamonten is said to have appeared from the heavens and bestowed secret dharma for victory. Since this manifestation occurred in the Year of the Tiger, on the Day of the Tiger, at the Hour of the Tiger, the tiger became the sacred messenger at Mount Shigi, and many tiger statues are enshrined throughout the temple grounds.
After achieving victory in battle, Prince Shotoku carved an image of Bishamonten himself and constructed temple buildings at this site. He named the place “Mount Shigi” (信貴山), meaning “a mountain to be trusted and revered,” marking the beginning of this sacred site.
The Temple’s Official Name
The name “Chogosonshi Temple” was granted during the reign of Emperor Daigo. When the emperor fell gravely ill, upon imperial decree, the high priest Myoren performed prayers to Bishamonten at Mount Shigi for the emperor’s recovery.
The emperor’s illness was quickly cured, and deeply moved, Emperor Daigo bestowed the name “Chogosonshi Temple” upon the site as a place of prayer for imperial stability, the protection of the realm, and the longevity of the imperial line. The name “Chogosonshi” carries the meaning of “protecting the court and guarding the longevity of the emperor’s descendants.”
Changes from Medieval to Early Modern Periods
During the Heian period, Mount Shigi flourished as a sacred site of the Shugendo mountain practice tradition. In particular, through the efforts of Myoren, Bishamonten worship spread throughout the nation, and the location became a gathering place for many monks and practitioners.
During the Warring States period, Matsunaga Hisahide built Shigisan Castle, and it served as a strategically important military location. However, the castle fell during Oda Nobunaga’s attack in 1577, and the temples suffered significant damage.
Subsequently, during the Edo period, gradual restoration progressed, and many of the halls and structures visible today were established. The main hall in particular was rebuilt in 1951 and has become a symbol of post-war reconstruction.
Highlights of the Temple Grounds
The World’s Greatest Lucky Tiger (Giant Papier-Mâché Tiger)
Welcoming pilgrims at the entrance to Shigisan Chogosonshi Temple is the massive papier-mâché tiger “World’s Greatest Lucky Tiger,” standing approximately six meters tall. This impressive tiger was created based on the auspicious tale of Bishamonten’s manifestation in the Year of the Tiger, on the Day of the Tiger, at the Hour of the Tiger.
Visitors continuously take photographs in front of the lucky tiger, and it has become a beloved symbol of Mount Shigi. The tiger is considered a symbol of business prosperity and increased fortune, and touching this lucky tiger is said to bring blessings.
Main Hall (Bishamonten Hall)
The temple’s main hall enshrines the Bishamonten statue said to have been carved by Prince Shotoku himself. The main hall, rebuilt in 1951, is a modern reinforced concrete structure with a solemn atmosphere within.
From the main hall, one can take in a sweeping view of the Yamato Plain, and on clear days, one can see as far as Osaka Bay. This magnificent vista is one of the highlights that moves many pilgrims, and standing on the main hall’s platform makes one appreciate why Prince Shotoku chose this location.
Kuhachigoho Hall (Hall of the Flying Bowl Guardian)
Kuhachigoho Hall enshrines a faith unique to Mount Shigi known as “Kuhachigoho” (the flying bowl guardian). This belief is based on a legend in which a bowl flies through the sky bringing food, and is said to offer benefits of business prosperity and increased fortune.
Numerous tiger statues are arranged around the hall, and pilgrims stroke the tigers’ heads while making their wishes. This location is particularly popular among those engaged in business as a power spot.
Gyokusoin Subtemple
Gyokusoin is one of the subtemples of Shigisan Chogosonshi Temple and is known for its magnificent views from the reception hall. The garden features a pond-centered strolling style, and visitors can enjoy the scenery in each season.
Particularly during the autumn foliage season, the grounds turn red and yellow, creating a spectacular view combined with the landscape of the Yamato Plain. Gyokusoin is recommended for those who wish to enjoy vegetarian cuisine and experience a temple lodging while slowly absorbing Mount Shigi’s spiritual atmosphere.
Seifukuin and Senshuin
Seifukuin, the head temple, and Senshuin are also important subtemples of Shigisan Chogosonshi Temple. Seifukuin functions as temple administration, handling the distribution of commemorative temple seals and various prayer requests.
Senshuin is also known as a temple lodging where visitors can stay at Mount Shigi and participate in early morning Buddhist services. Participating in the morning services in the cool air before dawn becomes a special experience removed from daily life.
Kaiun Bridge
A beautifully vermillion-painted “Kaiun Bridge” (Good Fortune Bridge) spans the approach to Shigisan Chogosonshi Temple. This bridge is registered as a Nara Prefecture landscape asset and creates a beautiful vista harmonizing with the surrounding nature.
Crossing the Kaiun Bridge allows one to feel the boundary between the secular world and sacred space. From the bridge, one can enjoy views of the valley, making it an excellent photography spot, especially during the seasons of new green foliage and autumn leaves.
Reihokan (Treasure Hall)
The Shigisan Reihokan houses precious cultural properties including the national treasure “Shigisan Engi Scroll.” The Shigisan Engi Scroll is a narrative emakimono (illustrated scroll) created in the late Heiji period that depicts the achievements of the high priest Myoren and is a masterpiece.
Though normally on deposit at the Nara National Museum, the scroll returns for special display periods each autumn and is exhibited at the Reihokan. Numerous other Buddhist statues, paintings, and ancient documents are also displayed, recounting Mount Shigi’s long history.
Blessings of Shigisan Chogosonshi Temple
The Virtues of Bishamonten
Bishamonten, one of the Seven Lucky Gods, is particularly said to offer powerful blessings regarding virtue and fortune. Possessing both aspects as a warrior deity and a god of wealth, the following benefits are believed:
Business Prosperity: Popular with business leaders and merchants wishing for business success and commercial prosperity. Connected with Kuhachigoho faith, it is regarded as a power spot for increased fortune.
Family Safety: Revered as a guardian deity protecting family health and safety, trusted by many households.
Good Fortune and Longevity: Attracting pilgrims wishing to increase fortune in all aspects of life and experience lasting happiness.
Fulfillment of Wishes: Said to possess the power to grant various wishes, including exam success, romantic fulfillment, and recovery from illness.
Removal of Bad Luck and Disaster Prevention: As a warrior deity, it is believed to remove calamities and harmful influences.
Guardian of Those Born in the Year of the Tiger
Shigisan Chogosonshi Temple holds special significance for people born in the Year of the Tiger. Based on the auspicious tale of Bishamonten’s manifestation in the Year of the Tiger, on the Day of the Tiger, at the Hour of the Tiger, the temple is considered the guardian temple for those born in tiger years.
Special services are held during New Year in the Year of the Tiger, and pilgrims born in tiger years gather from throughout the nation. Additionally, special prayers can be received on Tiger Days.
Annual Events
Main Annual Events
Shigisan Chogosonshi Temple hosts various services and events throughout the year.
First Three Days of the Year: The temple is crowded with New Year visitors, and special prayers for New Year blessings are offered. The first days of tiger years attract particularly large numbers of pilgrims.
Setsubun Ceremony (February 3rd): Bean-throwing ceremonies and sacred fire prayers are performed to ward off evil for the coming year.
Spring Grand Festival (April): Ceremonies are held celebrating the arrival of spring and praying for abundant harvests.
Bishamonten’s Auspicious Day (Every Tiger Day of the Month): Special prayers are conducted with many believers attending.
Autumn Grand Festival (October): The grandest festival at Mount Shigi, featuring various services and dedicatory performances. The national treasure exhibition at the Reihokan often aligns with this period.
New Year’s Eve Bell (December 31st): The temple bell is rung to mark the year’s end.
Seasonal Highlights
Mount Shigi’s natural beauty varies with the seasons.
Spring (March–May): Cherry blossoms bloom gloriously and new foliage colors the mountain. Particularly from early to mid-April, cherry blossoms can be enjoyed throughout the grounds.
Summer (June–August): Enveloped in deep green, the grounds remain cool and serve as a popular summer retreat. Early morning visits are particularly refreshing.
Autumn (September–November): Mount Shigi’s autumn foliage ranks among the most beautiful in Nara Prefecture. Mid to late November is peak season, when the entire grounds turn red and gold.
Winter (December–February): The snow-covered grounds are wrapped in silence with a solemn atmosphere. The clear air provides even more beautiful views of the Yamato Plain.
Access Information
Access by Train
Using the Kintetsu Line:
- Get off at “Shigisangita Station” on the Kintetsu Ikoma Line, then take the Nara Bus “Shigisan-mon” bound bus for approximately 15 minutes. From the terminal, a 10-minute walk leads to the temple.
- Get off at “Kawachiyamamoto Station” on the Kintetsu Osaka Line, then take the Nara Bus “Shigisan-mon” bound bus for approximately 20 minutes. From the terminal, a 10-minute walk leads to the temple.
Using JR:
- Get off at “Oji Station” on the JR Yamato Line, then take the Nara Bus “Shigisan-mon” bound bus for approximately 25 minutes. From the terminal, a 10-minute walk leads to the temple.
Access by Car
From the Osaka Area:
- Approximately 30 minutes from the “Kashiba IC” via the Nishi-Meihan Expressway and National Route 168
- Approximately 40 minutes from “Horyuji IC” via the Hanshin Expressway
From the Kyoto/Nara Area:
- Approximately 20 minutes from the “Nakamachi Ramp” via the Second Hannan Expressway
- Approximately 40 minutes via National Route 168
Parking Information:
Multiple parking lots are available around the temple grounds. Standard car parking is fee-based (approximately 500 yen), and congestion is expected during busy periods. Early arrival is recommended.
Access by Cable Car
“Shigisan Cable” operates from Takaayama Station to Shigisan Station, connecting the two in approximately five minutes. The view from the cable car is also spectacular and enhances the tourist experience. However, approximately a 20-minute walk is required from the cable car station to Chogosonshi Temple.
Visiting Information
Basic Information
Visiting Hours:
- Temple grounds: Open to visitors (main hall: 9:00 AM–4:30 PM)
- Reihokan: Open only during special exhibition periods (typically autumn)
Admission Fee:
- Strolling the grounds is free
- Reihokan admission during special exhibitions: approximately 300–500 yen
Location:
〒636-0923 2280-1 Shigisan, Heguricho, Ikoma County, Nara Prefecture
Inquiries:
Phone: 0745-72-2277 (main line)
Pilgrimage Tips
Recommended Duration: Allow 2–3 hours to leisurely walk the temple grounds. For overnight accommodation at a temple lodging, a one-night, two-day plan including morning services and vegetarian meals is recommended.
Attire: The grounds are extensive with many slopes and stairs, so comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Especially during the autumn foliage season when crowds are heavy, loose-fitting clothes are appropriate.
Photography: Photography in the grounds is generally permitted, though some areas such as inside the main hall have photography restrictions. Confirm before photographing.
Nearby Tourist Attractions
Shigisan Castle Ruins
Remains of the castle built by Matsunaga Hisahide during the Warring States period survive here. One can study the structure of period mountain castles, making it an invaluable spot for history enthusiasts.
Heguri Town Ancient Burial Mounds
At the foot of Mount Shigi lie scattered remains from the burial mound period. Visitors can enjoy a historical walk while experiencing the atmosphere of ancient Yamato.
Horyuji Temple
Located approximately 30 minutes by car, the world heritage site Horyuji Temple is another site connected to Prince Shotoku. Visiting both sites completes a pilgrimage following Prince Shotoku’s footsteps.
Mount Ikoma
The neighboring Mount Ikoma features an amusement park and observation deck, making it suitable for family tourism. Hiking courses connecting from Mount Shigi are also maintained.
Temple Lodging Experience
At Shigisan Chogosonshi Temple, temple lodging experiences are available at subtemples such as Gyokusoin and Senshuin. By enjoying vegetarian cuisine and participating in early morning services, visitors can spend special time removed from daily life.
At the temple lodging, visitors may listen to Buddhist talks from monks, and experiences such as sutra copying and meditation are also available. The time spent in quietude, facing oneself, offers a precious opportunity for modern people.
Reservations must be made directly with each subtemple in advance. Especially weekends and the autumn foliage season are busy, so early reservation is recommended.
Souvenirs and Talismans
Popular Talismans
Various talismans and protective charms can be purchased at Shigisan Chogosonshi Temple.
Lucky Tiger Talisman: A talisman featuring a tiger motif said to provide benefits of business prosperity and increased fortune.
Bishamonten Talisman: A talisman receiving the protection of Bishamonten, said to offer benefits of warding off evil and good fortune.
Victory Talisman: Based on the historical account of Prince Shotoku’s victory prayers, this talisman is popular with those wishing success in competitions or exams.
Commemorative Temple Seals
Commemorative temple seals can be obtained at the main hall and various subtemples at Shigisan Chogosonshi Temple. Each features different designs, and those collecting seals may wish to visit multiple locations.
Limited edition seals are sometimes distributed on special occasions, so checking official information before visiting is advisable.
Summary
Shigisan Chogosonshi Temple, with its history spanning more than 1,400 years, continues to be revered as the head temple of Bishamonten worship and attracts believers even today. As a sacred site connected to Prince Shotoku and a power spot for business prosperity and good fortune, it is truly worthy of a visit.
The expansive temple grounds are rich with attractions, and the beauty of nature changes with the seasons. The sweeping views of the Yamato Plain, the giant lucky tiger, the solemn main hall, and the serene subtemples each form the charm of Mount Shigi.
When visiting Nara, be sure to stop by Shigisan Chogosonshi Temple and experience its history and spiritual energy firsthand. A special time away from daily life surely awaits you.
