In 807, Sakanoueno Tamuramaro built Bishamon-do temple on his eastern expedition. Jikakudaiji Ennin later enshrined the statue of Godai Myoo, causing people to call it Godai-do. The current temple was rebuilt by Date Masamune in Momoyama style, recognized as the oldest Momoyama style building in Tohoku area.

According to legend, Bishamonten (guardian god of Buddhism), enshrined by Sakanoueno Tamuramaro, glowed and flew off to a small island off shore when Jikakudaiji enshrined the statue of Godai Myoo, giving the island its name, Bishamon Island.