Osu Kannon Temple in Nagoya

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Facts & Figures

The Osu Kannon Temple (Kitanosan Shinpuku-ji Hosho-in) belongs to the Shingon sect and is one of the most popular and famous Buddhist temples in Nagoya. This tourist hotspot is located within the Osu Kannon shopping district.  Explore Ryokans in Nagoya >
Ryokans are the perfect way to discover old Japanese culture and traditions. The shopping area with its focus on electronic goods is comparable to Tokyo´s Akihabara district. Two important sightseeing spots are my must-see recommandation during your Osu Kannon Temple visit the famous library with over 15000 Japanese and Chinese Buddhist texts, including the oldest copy of the Kojiki, a hand-written chronicle of Japan's early history and the wooden statue of Kannon (Goddess of Mercy).

• Osu Kannon Temple:
• Opening Hours - always, every day of the year
• Admission fee - free

My tips for local activities

How about exploring the amazing food scene of Nagoya on a personalized food tour with a local guide. Check out this page > for more details.

History

The Osu Kannon Temple was built during the Kamakura period (1185-1333). Shogun Ieyasu Tokugawa (1543 - 1616) gave the order in 1612 to move the Osu Kannon Temple from Hashima area (Gifu prefecture) to its location in Nagoya. The original temple was destroyed many times by floods and fire. The last big fire happened in 1820. The current building is a reconstruction from 1970.

Sightseeing spots

Top:

Wooden statue of Kannon - created by Kobe Saishi, a priest and known figure in the world of Japanese Buddhism

Shinpukuji Library - the library contains important cultural properties

Huge red paper lantern - worshippers have the chance to add small papers with wishes to the holding wires

Osu Shopping Arcade - besides the temple is a shopping paradise located, more than 400 shops waiting for you

Festival & Events (dates can change without notice)

Each Month

Flea Market (every month on the 18th and 28th)
A very popular flea market with 60 stalls and a huge variety of products (souvenirs, clothes etc...) attracts the locals and tourists alike. Hint: there is also a smaller version of this flea market on the 28th of every month.

July/August

Osu Summer Festival (July 31st - August 1st)
A great and very popular matsuri with performances like playing of Osu Daiko (drums), bon dancing and a samba parade. Amazing hand-held fireworks (tezutsu hanabi) attracting the crowd infront of the Osu Kannon temple - a must-see.