Guida
Hōgon-ji is a temple of the Shingon Shuzen sect 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 Scenic Spot. The main deity is Dai-Benzaiten, making it one of the most significant sites for the goddess of music and water. The entire island is structured as a place of worship, characterized by its dramatic cliffs and spiritual atmosphere.
Chikubu Island has long been a sacred site for the worship of Benzaiten. Although the temple (Hōgon-ji) and the shrine (Tsukubusuma Shrine) are now separate entities, they were once unified in the practice of Shinto-Buddhist syncretism. This separation occurred due to the government edicts in the early Meiji era. A striking feature is the two connecting corridors that link the Kannon-do Hall of the temple with the main hall of Tsukubusuma Shrine, symbolizing their deep historical connection. Additionally, the National Treasure Karamon Gate was originally relocated from the Toyokuni Mausoleum by Toyotomi Hideyori in 1601.
The temple grounds are home to numerous architecturally significant structures. Key highlights include the 'Karamon Gate' (National Treasure), the 'Kannon-do Hall' (Important Cultural Property), and the connecting corridors (low-roof and high-roof styles). The interior of the main hall (Benzaiten-do) is adorned with exquisite paintings, such as the 'Diagram of the Various Deities' by Arai Kanpō on the front and the 'Flying Celestials' (Hiten) on the sides. Other notable elements 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 is strictly dependent on the operating hours of the sightseeing boats. The island's appearance changes beautifully with the seasons, particularly in Spring (March–May) and Autumn (October–November) when the natural scenery is most vibrant. Since travel involves a boat ride, it is highly recommended to check the weather and vessel schedules before your visit.
A journey to Chikubu Island is an integral part of the experience, involving a boat trip from ports such as Nagahama, Hikone, or Imatsu. Once on the island, you can discover various sacred spots, such as the 'Zuisho-sui' (sacred spring) related to the main deity, and the 'Kokuryu-do' (Black Dragon Hall) dedicated to 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.
The entire island of Chikubu is a sacred space. Visitors navigate the island via stone steps and well-maintained paths leading from the pier. There are a few souvenir shops available on the island. The boat journey from ports like Nagahama, Hikone, or Imatsu offers breathtaking views of Lake Biwa during the transit.
As reaching the island requires a boat ride and the terrain includes stone steps and slopes, comfortable walking shoes are strongly recommended. Please note that there may be separate fees for island entry and temple viewing.