Chogosonshi-ji Shigi-san
A mystical mountain temple guarded by a giant tiger, offering breathtaking views and a touch of ancient legend.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful atmosphere
Chogosonshi-ji Shigi-san
Best Time
Peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A mystical mountain temple guarded by a giant tiger, offering breathtaking views and a touch of ancient legend.
"Magical to enter the temple grounds from the peak, with stunning views and cute tiger symbolism."
🎒 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and hiking up the mountain. Good footwear is essential for exploring the vast temple grounds.
⏰ Arrive Early for Serenity
Beat the few crowds by arriving in the morning. The peaceful ambiance is best enjoyed before midday.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Grand Tiger Guardian
Temple Entrance
A colossal papier-mâché tiger welcomes you, symbolizing blessings and good fortune. It's an iconic and whimsical sight.
Panoramic Mountain Vistas
Temple Peak
Ascend to the highest points for breathtaking views of the surrounding valley and mountains. The scenery is truly spectacular.
The World's First Manga Scroll?
Temple Museum/Exhibits
Discover ancient scrolls that some believe to be the origin of manga, offering a fascinating glimpse into Japanese art history.
Magical Nighttime Illumination
Temple Grounds
Experience the temple complex transformed by enchanting lights after dark, creating a truly magical and serene ambiance.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Getting There: Embrace the Journey
Timing is Key for Tranquility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎒 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and hiking up the mountain. Good footwear is essential for exploring the vast temple grounds.
⏰ Arrive Early for Serenity
Beat the few crowds by arriving in the morning. The peaceful ambiance is best enjoyed before midday.
suggestions for off the beaten track hidden gems
Suggestions for unique Kyoto / Osaka stay
🌙 Consider a Night Visit
The temple is said to be even more magical at night with its illuminations. A truly unique experience!
🚖 Taxi for Convenience
While buses and trains are options, a taxi can make reaching the mountain temple more direct and easier.
Shukubo in Kyoto or Koyasan
Tips
from all over the internet
🎒 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and hiking up the mountain. Good footwear is essential for exploring the vast temple grounds.
⏰ Arrive Early for Serenity
Beat the few crowds by arriving in the morning. The peaceful ambiance is best enjoyed before midday.
🌙 Consider a Night Visit
The temple is said to be even more magical at night with its illuminations. A truly unique experience!
🚖 Taxi for Convenience
While buses and trains are options, a taxi can make reaching the mountain temple more direct and easier.
🙏 Morning Ceremony Option
You can attend the morning ceremony at 6:30 AM. Register in advance if you want a closer look at the monks.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Chogosonshi-ji Shigi-san as a magical, off-the-beaten-path gem with breathtaking mountain views and a unique tiger theme. The journey up the mountain is considered part of the charm, and many recommend experiencing the temple's enchanting nighttime illuminations. While not overly crowded, some find access a bit challenging.
"Hiked here from Shigisanguchi on the other side of the mountains. Wonderful home and so magical to enter the temple grounds from the peak. The temple complex is breathtaking - so many stunning views together with the cute tiger symbolism, this place gives you a great feeling. I spent a good 2-3 hours strolling through the various parts of the temple. Highly recommend heading to the peak for the best views."
Simon Tong
"Beautiful temple complex with a large tiger statue, overlooking a really nice valley. The place feels quite secluded and peaceful. The morning ceremony at 6:30 can be attended by anyone. Recommend to register in advance if you want to go inside to see the monks up close during the ceremony (not a mush though). This complex is quite large, and boasts what was said to be the largest Jizo statue in Japan."
Matan Katz
"Hidden gem to be found. It is not so easy to get here, 2 train rides then taxi - that's what we did. On the way back we waited for the bus. It's all the way in the mountain area and away from tourists. Staff were very welcoming, not so many people yet as it isn't known well yet. Very nice walking hike up the mountain without crowds as in many tourist areas. Too bad when we were there the udon place was closed. Did buy some charms special to the tiger temple and donated to the temple. Nice view when you reached the top. As it was in the mountain area, it was a bit chilly. There was also bungee jumping on the bridge but it was not operating when we were there. Overall visit was superb. We made an effort to get here and it was worth it."
Eva
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From Osaka, take the Kintetsu Nara Line to Oji Station. From Oji Station's north exit, you can catch a bus bound for Shigi-sammon, and it's a short walk from the Shigi-ohashi bus stop. Alternatively, from Shigisanguchi Station, you can take a cable car up the mountain.
It requires a bit of effort, usually involving two train rides and then a bus or taxi. The journey itself is part of the experience, leading you into a more secluded mountain area.
Yes, taking a taxi is an option, especially from nearby stations like Oji or Shigisanguchi, and can offer a more direct route to the mountain temple.
The cable car from Shigisanguchi Station offers a scenic and convenient way to ascend the mountain, providing lovely views as you climb towards the temple complex.
Buses are available from stations like Oji, typically heading towards Shigi-sammon. From the bus stop, it's a short walk to the temple grounds.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the main temple grounds is generally free, allowing you to explore the vast complex and admire the architecture and tiger motifs. Some specific areas or events might have separate fees.
The temple grounds are typically open from early morning, with the morning ceremony starting around 6:30 AM. It's best to check for specific closing times as they can vary.
The iconic papier-mâché tiger at the entrance is part of the free-access area, allowing everyone to marvel at its impressive size and detail.
Yes, visiting at night is highly recommended for the magical illuminations. The grounds are often lit up, creating a serene and enchanting atmosphere.
The temple holds a morning ceremony at 6:30 AM that visitors can attend. It's advisable to register in advance if you wish to get a closer view of the monks.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You'll find a sprawling temple complex with numerous buildings, stunning mountain views, the famous giant tiger statue, and potentially ancient scrolls considered early manga. +1
Plan for at least 2-3 hours to comfortably stroll through the various parts of the temple and enjoy the panoramic views from the peak.
Yes, the temple is located on a mountain, so expect some walking and hiking to explore different areas and reach the best viewpoints. Comfortable shoes are a must.
The tigers are considered spirit animals that offer blessings and good luck to visitors. They are a prominent and charming motif throughout the temple complex.
The temple is home to ancient scrolls that are believed by some to be among the world's first manga, offering a unique historical and artistic perspective.
📸 📸 Photography
The giant tiger statue at the entrance, the panoramic views from the mountain peak, and the temple architecture are all fantastic photo opportunities. The nighttime illuminations also offer unique shots. +1
Photography rules can vary for specific areas within temple complexes. It's best to observe signage or ask temple staff if you're unsure about photographing inside buildings.
Early morning offers soft light and fewer people, ideal for capturing the serene atmosphere. Evenings are spectacular for the illuminated views, providing a different kind of photographic magic.
Drone usage is often restricted at religious sites and national parks to maintain peace and prevent disturbance. It's advisable to check local regulations before flying a drone.
Absolutely! The temple's nighttime illuminations create a magical ambiance perfect for photography. Bring a tripod for best results in low light.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the temple is spread out, the cable car option can make the ascent more enjoyable for younger legs. Pack plenty of snacks and water, as dining options within the immediate temple complex might be limited or closed. The unique legends and the visual appeal of the tiger motifs can help keep children engaged throughout the visit.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Hikers
Consider arriving early to fully appreciate the tranquility before any potential visitors arrive. The various paths and viewpoints offer a good workout, and the panoramic vistas are a perfect reward. The temple's rich history and unique legends add an intellectual layer to the physical journey, making it a fulfilling solo adventure.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
The temple's architecture, with its traditional Japanese design, offers intricate details and atmospheric shots. Don't miss the chance to photograph the temple at night when the illuminations create a magical, ethereal glow. This offers a completely different, yet equally captivating, photographic experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legend of the Tiger Temple
The temple's association with victory makes it a popular pilgrimage site for those seeking success in endeavors, from exams to business ventures. Visitors often purchase tiger-themed charms and amulets for good luck. The sheer scale of the papier-mâché tiger at the entrance is a testament to its importance, serving as a grand guardian and an unforgettable first impression for many.
Beyond the tiger lore, the temple is also noted for its historical scrolls, some of which are considered by scholars to be among the earliest examples of Japanese manga. This dual heritage—spiritual protection and artistic innovation—makes Chogosonshi-ji Shigi-san a unique destination, blending religious devotion with cultural history.
Navigating the Mountainous Terrain
Once you arrive at the temple complex, be prepared for a significant amount of walking and some uphill climbs. The temple grounds are extensive, spread across the mountainside, with various halls, pagodas, and viewpoints to explore. Wearing comfortable walking shoes is highly recommended, as you'll likely spend several hours traversing the site. The effort is rewarded with stunning vistas and a sense of peaceful seclusion.
For those seeking a more direct or less strenuous approach, taxis are available from nearby stations, though they can be more costly. Some visitors have also noted that waiting for buses can sometimes involve a wait, so planning your transport in advance or being flexible with your schedule is advisable. The journey, while requiring some planning, is well worth it for the unique experience of this hidden gem.
Experiencing the Temple After Dark
The nighttime illuminations create a mystical ambiance, making the vast temple complex feel even more intimate and awe-inspiring. It's an ideal time for a peaceful stroll, away from the limited daytime crowds, allowing for quiet contemplation amidst the glowing structures. The contrast between the dark mountain landscape and the softly lit temple buildings is particularly striking.
If you plan to visit at night, remember to check the specific times for the illuminations and any potential closing hours for certain areas. Bringing a tripod can be beneficial for capturing the beauty of the illuminated temple in low-light conditions. This nocturnal visit provides a unique and memorable dimension to your exploration of Shigi-san.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit