Chogosonshi-ji Temple

The Birthplace

of Bishamonten Worship in Japan

Chogosonshi-ji Temple is a Buddhist temple on Mount Shigi in Nara, dedicated to Bishamonten. Its origin is traditionally connected with Prince Shotoku, who is said to have received the protection of Bishamonten on this mountain in the late 6th century. In the early 10th century, the temple received the imperial title “Chogosonshi-ji” after prayers there were believed to have aided Emperor Daigo’s recovery from illness.

The temple is also known for its mountain setting and for the tiger imagery seen throughout the precincts, reflecting traditions connected with Bishamonten and Prince Shotoku. Over time, it became a place of faith for a wide range of worshippers, including warriors and ordinary lay visitors.

For visitors, Chogosonshi-ji offers a clear introduction to mountain temple worship and the long history of Bishamonten devotion in Nara.

Explore the Sights

See photos that bring Chogosonshi-ji Temple to life.

A large, colorful tiger statue with an open mouth on a pathway surrounded by lush green trees and traditional Japanese buildings in the background.
A traditional Japanese shrine with a red wooden structure, stone lanterns on either side, stone steps leading up to it, and a temple bell under the roof. Trees surround the shrine.
A traditional Japanese temple on a hillside with a large silver Buddha statue beside it, surrounded by lush green trees and rooftops.
A traditional Japanese temple with a wooden structure, dark roof, stone lanterns, and stone steps leading up to the entrance, surrounded by leafless trees under a cloudy sky.
A person in traditional purple robes ascending the stone steps of a Japanese Shinto shrine with lanterns and ornate wooden architecture.
A person with a backpack and white pants bowing at a traditional Japanese shrine with a large hanging rope and bell.
A traditional Japanese pagoda with multi-tiered roofs, a tall ornate spire on top, and a torii gate at the base, surrounded by trees and a stone pathway.
A sculpture of a deity or spiritual figure partially obscured by a large red lantern, located under a wooden roof.
Multiple small Buddhist monk statues made of stone, some wearing colorful hats and red cloths, arranged in rows.
A photograph taken from behind a stone wall with small rocks on top, showing a traditional Japanese temple or pagoda with a gray, curved roof and red structure in the background, surrounded by green trees and a partly cloudy sky.
Stone steps leading up to a Japanese temple or shrine, flanked by red banners with white Japanese characters, and a leafless tree in the background under an overcast sky.
A pathway through multiple red torii gates with black inscriptions in a forest setting.