Guide
Hōgon-ji Temple is a temple of the Shingon Esoteric Buddhist tradition, located on Chikubu Island in Nagahama City, Shiga Prefecture. Chikubu Island is a small island of approximately 2 kilometers in circumference and is designated as a National Historic Site and Place of Scenic Beauty. The main deity is the Great Benzaiten, one of the three most important Benzaiten shrines in Japan. The entire island is structured as a place of worship, characterized by its dramatic landscape of cliffs surrounding the sacred sites.
Chikubu Island has long been a center of worship for Benzaiten. Currently, the religious sites of Hōgon-ji Temple and Tsukubusuma Shrine are separate, a result of the Shinto-Buddhist separation orders in the early Meiji era. From the Heian period through the early modern era, the two traditions were practiced in harmony (Shinbutsu-shugo). The Kannon-do Hall of the main temple and the main hall of Tsukubusuma Shrine are connected by two corridors, symbolizing their historical connection. Additionally, the National Treasure Karamon Gate was originally moved from the Hounokubyo Shrine by Toyotomi Hideyori in 1607.
The temple grounds house numerous buildings of immense historical value. Most notably, the "Karamon Gate" (a National Treasure), the "Kannon-do" (an Important Cultural Property), and the connecting corridors (low-roofed and high-roofed) are masterpieces of Japanese architecture. The main hall (Benzaiten-do) also features exquisite murals: the "Diagram of the Various Deities" by Arai Kanpō on the front wall and the "Flying Celestials" (Heten) on the side. Other significant features include the Five-Story Stone Pagoda (Important Cultural Property) and the "Mochi-no-ki" tree, said to have been planted by Katagiri Katsumoto.
Access to Chikubu Island depends entirely on the sightseeing boat schedules. The island's appearance changes beautifully with the seasons, particularly during Spring (March–May) and Autumn (October–November). Since travel involves a boat ride, it is highly recommended to check weather conditions and boat operating status before your visit.
A visit to Chikubu Island begins with a scenic boat ride from ports such as Nagahama, Hikone, or Imazu. The journey by sea is a vital part of the experience. Once on the island, you can discover various sacred sites, such as the "Zuisho-sui" (sacred spring) related to the main deity, and the "Kokuryu-do" (Black Dragon Hall) which enshrines the Black Dragon, one of the eight dragon kings. Another must-see is the "Kannon Hōan-den," which houses 33 statues modeled after the deities of the Saigoku 33 Kannon Pilgrimage.
Chikubu Island is a sacred space where Hōgon-ji Temple and Tsukubusuma Shrine coexist. Movement on the island is done via stone steps and well-maintained paths leading from the pier. There are a few souvenir shops on the island. The boat journey from ports like Nagahama, Hikone, or Imazu offers breathtaking views of Lake Biwa.
As the island requires a boat trip and contains uneven terrain with stone steps, we strongly recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes. Please note that island entry fees and separate temple viewing fees may apply.