Nyoiji Temple, located in Nohara-nishi, Gojo City, Nara Prefecture, is the head temple of Benten-shu, a Japanese Buddhist religious organization. Its full name is Ugazan Myoon-in Nyoiji, and its principal object of worship is Dai Benzaiten Nyozon, a revered form of Benzaiten, the Buddhist deity associated with wisdom, music, and eloquence. Set amid the peaceful natural surroundings of Gojo, the temple is an important destination for worshippers as the birthplace of Benten-shu.
On April 17, 1934, Kiyoko, the wife of Buddhist teacher Chisho Omori and later revered as Chiben Sonjo, is said to have received a divine revelation from Dai Benzaiten Nyozon at this site. This event is regarded as the beginning of Benten-shu.
Inspired by the teachings she received, Chiben Sonjo began working to help people experiencing hardship and distress. She organized her spiritual guidance into five fundamental teachings known as the “Five Admonitions” and shared them with a growing number of followers.
Benten-shu was formally established as a religious corporation in 1952. In 1954, its head temple, Ugazan Myoon-in Nyoiji, was built beside Juurin-ji Temple. From this location, the organization expanded its religious activities and outreach to communities throughout Japan.
The principal deity of Nyoiji Temple, Dai Benzaiten Nyozon, is revered within Benten-shu as a sacred presence embodying the virtues of all Buddhas and divine beings. The main sanctuary at the head temple enshrines an image of Benzaiten traditionally attributed to Gyoki, the eminent Buddhist monk of the Nara period.
A central principle of Benten-shu is the “Water Admonition,” which guides followers in their daily lives. The organization seeks to help create a world where everyone can live together in friendship and happiness. Visitors come to the temple to offer prayers, express gratitude, and find a moment of calm and reflection.
The spiritual foundation of Benten-shu is expressed through five teachings that encourage sincerity, compassion, generosity, gratitude, and a positive attitude toward life.
1. Never forget to act with sincerity.
2. Cultivate a heart filled with compassion and kindness.
3. Accumulate good deeds and perform acts of virtue.
4. Offer your heartfelt gratitude.
5. Do not dwell on complaints or dissatisfaction.
These principles emphasize putting faith into practice through everyday actions. They encourage personal growth and a commitment to contributing positively to society, making the teachings relevant not only to religious observance but also to daily relationships and community life.
Chiben Sonjo devoted herself not only to religious activities but also to education and social welfare. Her vision inspired the establishment of the Chiben Gakuen educational group and social welfare organizations that continue her work.
Chiben Gakuen Junior and Senior High School is known throughout Japan, particularly for its strong reputation in high school baseball. The organization has also contributed to local communities through the operation of nursery schools and welfare facilities.
The mausoleum of the religion’s founder is located near Nyoiji Temple, further reinforcing the area’s importance as the spiritual center of Benten-shu.
Although Nyoiji Temple is the birthplace and spiritual center of Benten-shu, the organization’s main headquarters is located at Myooji Temple on Mount Hiryuzan in Ibaraki City, Osaka Prefecture. Benten-shu also operates branches and regional centers throughout Japan, including a Tokyo branch temple.
Its activities extend beyond Japan, with overseas centers in places such as Hawaii, Hong Kong, South Korea, and Vancouver. These communities reflect the international reach of the organization and its efforts to share its teachings with people from different backgrounds.
One of its best-known annual events is the Ibaraki Benten Fireworks Festival, held at the Osaka headquarters on August 8. The fireworks are offered as a religious dedication and attract large crowds of spectators.
Nyoiji Temple is approximately five minutes by car from Gojo Interchange on the Keina-Wa Expressway. From JR Gojo Station on the Wakayama Line, it takes around 30 minutes to walk to the temple.
The temple can be visited as part of a sightseeing trip around Gojo City, where historic streets and peaceful natural landscapes offer further opportunities to explore the region. Its quiet setting provides a place to pause, reflect, and learn about a contemporary religious tradition rooted in the local community.
Although Benten-shu was founded in the 20th century, Nyoiji Temple has become deeply connected with the spiritual life of Gojo. It continues to support worshippers through its teachings, religious activities, and commitment to helping others.
Surrounded by the gentle landscapes at the foot of the Kongo Mountain Range, the temple offers visitors an opportunity to reflect on the values of prayer, gratitude, and compassion. For travelers exploring Gojo City, a visit to Nyoiji provides a glimpse into the living religious traditions of modern Japan alongside the area’s history and natural beauty.