Chion-ji Temple
智恩寺
“Kiritō Monju,” one of Japan's three Monju temples, where people pray for wisdom and academic success. The wisdom cakes sold at its gate are a local specialty.
Chion-ji sits at the south end of Amanohashidate. Its principal image, the Bodhisattva Manjushri, is counted among Japan's three Monju temples alongside Abe Monju-in in Nara and Kameoka Monju in Yamagata. Since ancient times it has been regarded as the guardian temple of Amanohashidate, and students often come to pray for exam success. The gate and the Tahōtō pagoda, an Important Cultural Property, have a rustic charm. Inside the temple, many fan-shaped oracle slips called “fan oracles” hang on display. Worship is free. The teahouses in front of the temple sell wisdom cakes that have been passed down for hundreds of years. From Amanohashidate Station, it is about a 5-minute walk. After worship, you can cross the Kaiten Bridge to enter Amanohashidate.
Opening hours
Open all day for visits
Nearby sights
- Amanohashidate View Land
- Amanohashidate
- Kono Shrine (Moto-Ise)
- Kasamatsu Park
- Nariai-ji Temple
- Ine Funaya Boathouses
- Hyogo Park of the Oriental White Stork
- Izushi Castle Town