Chogosonshi-ji on Mt. Shigi

The Chogosonshi-ji temple precincts on Mt. Shigi expand over an extensive area in the mountains of Nara. The deity worshiped here is called Bishamonten and is believed to improve one's monetary fortune and fulfill one's wishes. When visiting, let's start by offering a prayer to Bishamonten! Once you look outside, an exhilarating view of the mountains will be in front of your eyes. The temple is also known for a somewhat unconventional way of worship.

(Source: ふくいのりすけ / PIXTA(ピクスタ))

Tiger, a Symbol of the Temple

The symbol of this temple is a tiger! The worship of the tiger originated from when Bishamonten descended from the sky on the hour of the tiger, on the day of the tiger, in the year of the tiger. The premises are filled with tiger statues in all kinds of places and have a bit of a humorous touch. The 6-meter long paper mache tiger is especially impressive.

(Source: 信貴山朝護孫子寺)

Kaidanmeguri

Kaidanmeguri is a practice of this temple in which visitors offer a prayer to the Buddha in pitch darkness and if they manage to touch a key, it is said their wish will come true. The pitch darkness can be a little scary, but try looking for the key together with your friends or family! If succeeded, your wish may come true!?

(Source: 信貴山朝護孫子寺)

Mizuya

The mizuya (purification basin) close to the main hall is where visitors can scoop water. The collected water is to be delivered to a temple on a nearby mountain of 433-meter elevation! Upon successfully delivering the water and offering a prayer there, it is said one of your wishes will become reality. The mountain road is a steep path but the view from the temple is beautiful, so definitely give it a try.