Mt. Shigi

High on Mt. Shigi, a tiger’s roar echoes through time. It’s not a real tiger, but the spirit of one, intertwined with the very foundations of this sacred mountain. Mt. Shigi, nestled between Osaka and Nara, holds a special place in Japanese history and spirituality. It’s a place where legends were born and where the fate of Buddhism in Japan was decided. Our journey begins in the 6th century, a turbulent time of religious upheaval. Prince Shotoku, a key figure in Japanese history, was a fervent supporter of the newly introduced Buddhism. He faced opposition from the Mononobe clan, who championed the native Shinto beliefs. The clash of these two powerful families led to the Battle of Shigi in 587. Legend says Prince Shotoku came to Mt. Shigi to pray for victory. He prayed to Bishamonten, the Buddhist deity of war, during the year, day, and hour of the tiger. Bishamon-ten answered his prayers, guiding him to victory. Grateful for this divine intervention, Prince Shotoku established the Chogosonshi-ji Temple complex on Mt. Shigi. The tiger, symbolic of Bishamonten’s timely appearance, became the temple’s emblem. Centuries later, during the reign of Emperor Daigo, the temple received its official name, Chogosonshi-ji, meaning “temple for the protection of the nation.” This name commemorates another miracle attributed to Mt. Shigi. A monk named Myoren prayed for the emperor’s recovery from illness, and his prayers were answered. Today, Mt. Shigi remains a place of spiritual significance. The Chogosonshi-ji Temple complex, with its vibrant buildings and serene paths, invites contemplation and reflection. Here, you’ll find a blend of Buddhist and Shinto symbolism, a testament to the intertwined history of these two faiths in Japan. Look for the giant papier-mache tiger, Fukutora, at the entrance, and test your courage in the Santora-no-Fuku Tainai Meguri, a dark tunnel shaped like a tiger. Ascend to the main hall for breathtaking views of the Nara Basin and hike to Kuhachi Gobo-do at the summit for an even grander vista. Mt. Shigi offers more than just stunning scenery. It offers a glimpse into the heart of Japanese history and spirituality. A place where tigers roar in spirit, and legends come alive.