Complete Guide to Chofukuju-ji Temple (Chiba Prefecture) | A Thorough Explanation of the Lucky Elephant and the Power Spot for Boosting Financial Luck
Located in Chonan-machi, Chosei-gun, Chiba Prefecture, Chofukuju-ji Temple is a venerable Tendai sect temple known nationwide as “the temple where people are most likely to win the lottery in Japan.” The “Lucky Elephant” statue on the temple grounds attracts many visitors as a symbol of good fortune, and the temple is bustling daily as a power spot for increasing financial luck and fulfilling wishes. This article comprehensively explains everything you need to know before visiting Chofukuju-ji Temple, from its history and benefits to how to worship and access information.
What is Chofukuju-ji Temple? | A Grand, Ancient Tendai Sect Temple with 1200 Years of History
Chofukuju-ji Temple is a venerable temple with a history of over 1200 years, founded in 798 AD (Enryaku 17) by Saicho (Dengyo Daishi), the founder of the Tendai sect, at the behest of Emperor Kanmu. ### The Temple with the Longest Official Name in Japan
The official name of Chofukuju-ji Temple is “Sanzu-gawa-tou Gokuraku Higashi-mon Rengedai-jou Amida-bou Taihei-no-yama Honjitsu-in Chofukuju-ji,” which is known as the longest imperial title in Japan. This long name embodies a profound Buddhist meaning, signifying the path to the Pure Land, and has attracted the faith of people since ancient times.
History as the Head Temple of the Tendai Sect in the Three Provinces of Boso
In the Middle Ages, Chofukuju-ji Temple held such authority that it was said, “To the west is Mount Hiei, and to the east is Chofuku-ji Temple (then called Toeizan),” as one of the three major centers of Tendai Buddhism (Danrin). During the Edo period, it flourished as the head temple of the Tendai sect in the three provinces of Boso (Kazusa, Shimosa, and Awa), overseeing 308 branch temples.
It is also known as a center of learning in the Kanto region, with many monks deepening their studies here. Even today, the tradition is carried on, and the temple is open as a training hall for various lectures and spiritual practices.
Possession of a Chiba Prefecture Designated Tangible Cultural Property
The “Wooden Seated Statue of Jikei Daishi” owned by Chofukuju Temple is designated as a Chiba Prefecture Designated Tangible Cultural Property and is protected as a cultural asset of high historical and artistic value. Due to its exquisite carving technique and excellent state of preservation, this seated statue is a valuable resource for medieval Buddhist art.
The Legend and Benefits of “Kichi-Zou-kun,” the Statue That Grants Wishes
The biggest reason why Chofukuju Temple attracts so many visitors today is the presence of “Kichi-Zou-kun,” who sits in front of the main hall.
What is Kichi-Zou-kun?
Kichi-Zou-kun is a stone statue of an elephant with a legend that it “came to bring happiness to people.” It is said that this elephant declared, “If you touch its feet, you will surely become happy,” and visitors believe that by gently stroking Kichi-Zou-kun’s feet while making a wish, they will receive various blessings. In Buddhism, elephants are considered symbols of good fortune, and are especially known as the mount of Fugen Bodhisattva. Kichi-Zou-kun (the elephant statue) functions as a modern power spot, combining this symbolism with the long history of Chofukuju Temple.
Benefits of Kichi-Zou-kun
The benefits of visiting Kichi-Zou-kun are numerous:
Increased Financial Luck and Wealth
The most famous benefit is increased financial luck. Due to the numerous lottery winners, it has become nationally known as “Japan’s number one temple for lottery wins.”
Prayers for Health and Longevity
Inspired by the elephant’s longevity, it is believed to bring benefits of health and long life.
Harmonious Family Life and Successful Relationships
Many visitors come to pray for family happiness and good relationships.
Prayers for Success in Exams and Academic Achievement
Due to Chofukuju Temple’s history as a place of learning, many students and those preparing for qualification exams also visit.
Business Prosperity and Success
Business owners and self-employed individuals visit to pray for the development of their businesses.
Correct Way to Worship
To receive the maximum blessings from Kichi-Zou-kun, it is important to follow the correct way to worship:
- First, visit the main hall and put your hands together in prayer before the principal image.
- Calm your mind and silently recite your specific wish.
- Gently stroke Kichi-Zou-kun’s feet while concentrating on your wish.
- With gratitude, put your hands together again.
It is important to approach the temple with respect and gratitude, rather than rubbing too hard or making selfish wishes.
Japan’s Number One Temple for Lottery Winnings | Power Spot for Boosting Financial Luck
The reason Chofukuju-ji Temple has become famous as “Japan’s Number One Temple for Lottery Winnings” is due to the numerous reports of high-value lottery wins.
Proven Track Record of Numerous High-Value Lottery Winners
At Chofukuju-ji Temple, there have been numerous reports of people winning large sums of money in the lottery after visiting. From reports of winnings ranging from several million yen to hundreds of millions of yen, its track record far surpasses that of other temples and shrines. It is frequently featured in media such as television and magazines, and during lottery season, worshippers come from all over the country.
Prayer Ceremony for Increased Financial Luck
Chofukuju Temple regularly holds a prayer ceremony for increased financial luck. During this ceremony, the head priest performs a special prayer, and participants receive a special blessing for increased financial luck. Special prayer ceremonies are sometimes held during the release periods of major lottery tickets, such as the year-end Jumbo Lottery and the summer Jumbo Lottery.
Amulets and Items for Increased Financial Luck
Chofukuju Temple offers a variety of amulets and items specifically for increasing financial luck:
Kichi-Zou-kun Amulet
This amulet, featuring Kichi-Zou-kun (the temple’s mascot), is believed to attract financial luck when carried in a wallet.
Lottery Winning Prayer Talisman
This prayer talisman is believed to increase the chances of winning the lottery when kept together with purchased lottery tickets.
Goshuin (Temple Seal) for Increased Financial Luck
Special goshuin for increased financial luck are also available and are popular among collectors.
Wallet Purification
By having your wallet purified, you can receive prayers to improve the flow of your financial luck.
Testimonials of Joyful Financial Luck
The official website and review sites of Chofukuju Temple are filled with testimonials from visitors who have actually experienced increased financial luck. Reports include not only lottery winnings, but also unexpected income, salary increases, and business successes—in various forms of improved financial luck.
These success stories have spread through word of mouth, establishing Chofukuju Temple as the leading financial luck power spot in Chiba Prefecture, and even one of the top in the Kanto region.
Other Benefits and Prayers/Memorial Services
While Chofukuju Temple is famous for increasing financial luck, it also offers a variety of other benefits and services.
Guardian Deity for Women (Healing of Women’s Illnesses)
Chofukuju Temple is known for its blessings related to women’s specific illnesses and concerns. Prayers for healing women’s ailments can be received here, and the temple is revered as a protector of women’s health and happiness.
Doll Memorial Service
Chofukuju Temple regularly holds doll memorial services. You can respectfully offer prayers for dolls, stuffed animals, and Hina dolls filled with memories. Mail-in services are also available, making it possible to request services from distant locations.
Prayer for Success in Exams and Academic Achievement
With its history as a center of learning in the Kanto region, Chofukuju Temple is also popular for prayers for success in exams and academic achievement. During exam season, many students and their parents visit to pray for success.
Prayer for Increased Vitality
Chofukuju Temple also offers a distinctive prayer service, “Prayer for Increased Vitality,” which addresses the stress and fatigue of modern society. It helps restore physical and mental vitality and provides the energy to live a positive life.
Other Prayers
- Family Safety and Traffic Safety
- Protection from Evil and Misfortune
- Recovery from Illness and Prayer for Good Health
- Business Prosperity and Success
- Finding a Good Partner and Marriage
- Safe Childbirth and Prayer for Conception
We offer prayers for various aspects of life.
Access Information to Chofukuju Temple
Chofukuju Temple is located in Chonan-machi, Chosei-gun, Chiba Prefecture, and is easily accessible by car.
Basic Information
Location
969 Chonan, Chonan-machi, Chosei-gun, Chiba 297-0121
Phone Number
0475-46-1837
FAX
0475-46-1805
Visiting Hours
9:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Closed Days
Open every day (Open year-round)
Admission Fee
Free
Access by Car
From Tokyo, Chiba, and Togane Area
- Keiyo Expressway → Chiba-Higashi JCT
- Chiba-Togane Expressway → Togane JCT
- Ken-O Expressway (towards Kisarazu) → Exit at Mobara-Chonan IC
- Turn right at the first traffic light
- Turn left at the next Senda intersection and take National Route 409 towards Kisarazu
- After walking for about 3 minutes, you will see a sign for “Kichi-Zou-kun” on your right. Follow the signs and turn right.
From Kisarazu/Tateyama: Take the Ken-O Expressway and exit at Mobara-Chonan IC. Follow the same route.
Car Navigation Settings: You can search using the phone number “0475-46-1837” or “969 Chonan, Chonan-machi, Chosei-gun, Chiba Prefecture.”
Access by Public Transportation
Nearest Stations: – JR Sotobo Line “Mobara Station”
- Kominato Railway “Kazusa-Tsurumai Station”
Access from Mobara Station: Approximately 20 minutes by bus from Mobara Station. Get off at “Chonan Town Hall” and walk for about 15 minutes. However, since bus service is limited, taking a taxi is more convenient (approximately 20 minutes, fare around 3,000 yen).
Access from Kazusa-Tsurumai Station: Approximately 10 minutes by taxi.
Parking Information
Free Parking Available
Regular cars can park for free. There is ample parking space within the temple grounds.
Large Buses
Large buses incur a flat parking fee of 3,000 yen. For group visits, it is recommended to contact the temple in advance.
Combining with Nearby Tourist Attractions
There are other tourist attractions near Chofukuju-ji Temple:
- Kasamori Kannon (Kasamori-ji Temple): Approximately 15 minutes by car
- Mamihara Plateau (famous for hydrangeas): Approximately 30 minutes by car
- Yoro Valley: Approximately 40 minutes by car
You can combine these spots to enjoy sightseeing in the Uchibo and Sotobo areas of Chiba Prefecture.
Highlights and Events at Chofukuju-ji Temple
Highlights within the Temple Grounds
Main Hall
The imposing main hall houses the principal image, Yakushi Nyorai (Medicine Buddha). It is also the 19th temple on the Kazusa Province Yakushi Nyorai Pilgrimage.
Kichi-Zou-kun
Kichi-Zou-kun, enshrined in front of the main hall, is a symbol of Chofukuju Temple and attracts many visitors.
Safflower Garden
Depending on the season, beautiful safflowers bloom, delighting visitors.
Historical Buildings
The temple grounds contain buildings dating back to the Edo period, creating a historical atmosphere.
Annual Events
Chofukuju Temple holds various events and prayer ceremonies throughout the year:
Hatsumode (January 1st-3rd)
The temple is bustling with visitors praying for increased financial luck in the new year.
Setsubun Festival (February)
A Setsubun festival is held to ward off evil and invite good fortune.
Spring and Autumn Equinox Ceremonies
Memorial services are held to honor and express gratitude to ancestors.
Financial Luck Increase Prayer Ceremony (Irregular)
Special prayer ceremonies are held to coincide with the release of large lottery tickets, etc. New Year’s Special Prayer Ceremony
A special prayer ceremony will be held to mark the end of the year and pray for good fortune in the new year.
For details and dates of the event, please check the official website or contact the temple directly.
Points to Note and Manners When Visiting
Regarding Attire
There are no strict dress code regulations, but it is desirable to dress appropriately as this is a sacred place. Please avoid revealing or overly flashy clothing.
Regarding Photography
Photography is generally permitted on the temple grounds, but please be considerate of the privacy of those inside the main hall and other visitors. When posting on social media, please be careful not to include other visitors in your photos.
Regarding Offerings
There are no set amounts for offerings, but please offer with gratitude. Even when praying for increased wealth, it is important to be humble and not greedy.
Toilets and Facilities
Toilets are available on the temple grounds. You can use them before or after your visit, but please be mindful of keeping them clean.
Peak Seasons
The temple is especially crowded during the New Year holidays, when large lottery tickets are on sale, and on weekends. If you want to visit at a leisurely pace, weekday mornings are recommended.
Reviews and Reputation of Chofukuju Temple
Visitor Testimonials
Experience of Increased Financial Luck
“After visiting, I actually won 100,000 yen in the lottery!” “I was surprised to receive unexpected income!” Many visitors have reported experiencing an increase in their financial luck.
Attractiveness as a Power Spot
“The moment I entered the temple grounds, I felt a difference in the air,” and “Touching the lucky elephant statue, I felt a warm energy.” The temple is highly regarded as a power spot.
Personality of the Head Priest
“The head priest’s sermon resonated deeply,” and “They were very kind and helpful.” The temple staff’s helpfulness is also highly praised.
Media Coverage
Chofukuju Temple has been frequently featured on television programs and in magazines:
- Featured in various information programs as a “power spot for financial luck”
- Featured in lottery-related articles
- Featured in travel magazines introducing tourist spots in Chiba Prefecture
This media exposure has increased its national recognition.
Regarding Pros and Cons
Some opinions suggest it is “too commercial” or “not like a traditional temple.” However, many visitors positively evaluate it as “meeting modern needs” and “approachable and good,” and its innovative approach is supported.
Tips for Maximizing Your Visit to Chofukuju Temple
Preparation
Check the Official Website
Check the latest event information and special prayer dates.
Clarify Your Wishes
Organizing your specific wishes beforehand will allow for a more effective visit.
Allow plenty of time
Take ample time to stroll through the temple grounds, pray at the main hall, pay your respects to Kichi-Zou-kun, and receive any amulets.
Flow of your visit
- After arriving at the parking lot, tidy yourself up.
- Purify your hands and mouth at the water basin.
- Pray at the main hall and offer your prayers to the principal image.
- Convey your wishes to Kichi-Zou-kun.
- Stroll through the temple grounds and feel the energy.
- Receive amulets and Goshuin (temple stamps) at the amulet shop.
- Say your goodbyes with gratitude.
Local Gourmet Information
There are restaurants in and around Chonan Town that use local ingredients. Enjoying local cuisine after your visit is highly recommended. Dishes using seafood and mountain produce from the Boso Peninsula are particularly popular.
Souvenirs
Besides Kichi-Zou-kun goods and amulets, there are shops in the area that sell Chiba Prefecture’s specialty products. You can purchase souvenirs typical of Chiba, such as peanuts and processed seafood products.
Summary | Gain Good Fortune and Happiness at Chofukuju Temple
Chofukuju Temple is a fascinating temple with a history of over 1200 years, yet it possesses the flexibility to meet modern needs. Known as “Japan’s number one temple for winning the lottery,” it is a power spot for financial luck, while also maintaining the prestige of a venerable, ancient Tendai sect temple.
By stroking the feet of the lucky elephant statue while making a wish, you can expect not only increased financial luck, but also various blessings such as good health, good relationships, and success in exams. When visiting Chiba Prefecture, be sure to stop by Chofukuju Temple and experience its power.
The temple is open year-round, and admission is free. It is also relatively easy to access from central Tokyo via the Ken-O Expressway. Chofukuju Temple is an ideal choice for a weekend drive or a power spot tour.
Chofukuji Temple is open to everyone, whether you’re hoping for increased wealth, facing a turning point in your life, or seeking inner peace. Kichizo-kun awaits you, wishing you happiness.
