Buddhist temple
Kichijōsō-ji
吉祥草寺（きちじょうそうじ）
Gose, Nara Prefecture
An old temple in Chihara, Gose, Nara Prefecture, said to be the birthplace of En no Gyōja, the founder of Shugendō. In its main hall it enshrines the Godaison (five great deities), centered on Fudō Myōō, as its principal images.
English pages are the site’s own translations of its Japanese pages. The sources cited are in Japanese. 日本語で読む
Prayers associated with this place
Principal images: the Godaison (five great deities), centered on Fudō Myōō
History and things to know
According to the temple's tradition, it is said to have been opened by En no Gyōja (Ozunu), and the well that gave water for his first bath remains in the grounds. In the early Heian period, Rigen Daishi Shōbō rebuilt it by imperial command, but it lost its buildings in the fires of war in Jōwa 5 (1349). The main hall is said to have been rebuilt in the Ōei era, and the founder's hall enshrines an image of En no Gyōja as a young man.
Introduced by this site, based on materials from the shrine or temple and public bodies.
Related kami and buddhas
Before you visit
Opening hours, access, areas open to visitors, and events can change. Please check the latest guidance from the shrine or temple itself before you go.
Official website of the shrine or temple (may be in Japanese)
Sources (in Japanese)
- 吉祥草寺「御祭神・御本尊・由緒の公式案内」（2026-10-22 確認）
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