Katsuragawa Sokusho Myoo-in Temple – A Sacred Mountain Temple Steeped in the History of Kaihogyo

【Highlights】
・The Main Hall and Goma Hall, standing amid temple grounds surrounded by ancient cedars.
・A training hall associated with So-o Osho, said to have founded Mount Hiei’s Kaihogyo ascetic practice.
・Historic sanro-fuda pilgrimage plaques bearing the names of Ashikaga Yoshimitsu and Hino Tomiko.
・San-no-Taki Waterfall, where Soo Osho is said to have perceived Fudo Myo-o.

【History and Culture】
Katsuragawa Sokusho Myoo-in Temple is a mountain training hall said to have been established in the early Heian period by Soo Osho, the monk credited with founding Mount Hiei’s Kaihogyo ascetic practice.

Within its grounds, surrounded by ancient cedars, stand the Main Hall, Goma Hall, and other historic structures. Many are designated Important Cultural Properties, preserving the atmosphere of a sacred mountain site shaped by centuries of prayer and training.

The temple also preserves pilgrimage plaques bearing the names of those who undertook repeated devotional visits to Katsuragawa. Among them are the names of Ashikaga Yoshimitsu and Hino Tomiko, showing that Myoo-in Temple attracted deep faith from prominent figures across generations.

The Mandokoro Omotemon Gate, considered the oldest structure on the grounds, dates to the early 17th century. It conveys the long history that has been passed down in this secluded mountain temple.

Nearby Sannotaki Waterfall is said to be the place where Soo Osho conceived Fudo Myo-o. Together, the ancient cedar grove, the waterfall legend, and the temple’s historic halls quietly preserve the spiritual culture of Mount Hiei’s ascetic practice and Fudo Myo-o worship.

【Main Events】
・July: Taiko Mawashi, the Drum Turning Ritual