Hozenji Temple in Osaka

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Facts & Figures

The Hozenji Temple (Hozenji Yokocho) in Osaka is a small Buddhist temple near the busy Dotonbori Street and the shopping malls of Namba. Hozenji is dedicated to Fudo-myoo, one of the five guardians (Wisdom Kings) of Buddhism. Experience the Ultimate Japanese Hospitality at a Osaka Ryokan.
 Find Your Perfect Ryokan Now > The popular moss-covered Fudo-myoo statue stands at the temple, along with two other statues called Kongaradoji and Seitakadoji. The temple is a great place to find inner peace. Before you leave, don't forget to check out the calligraphy from Osaka actor Harudani Katsura (signboard at east gate) and comedian Kambi Fujiyama (signboard at west gate). Keep in mind that this spot is popular with social media enthusiasts and can get really crowded. I recommend visiting at night to enjoy the beautiful atmosphere and illumination of the temple and Hozenji Yokocho, a cobblestone alley lit by traditional Japanese lanterns.

• Hozenji Temple:
• Open - daily 24/7
• Admission Fee - free

My tips for local activities

How about exploring the highlights and hidden gems of the fascinating metropolis Osaka with a local guide? The personalized tour by our partner GetYourGuide can take between 3 - 4 hours. For more details check out this page >

History

Hozenji Temple was constructed during the Kanei period (1624 - 1644) in 1637 within a former graveyard. In the beginning, the temple grounds covered a much bigger area, which were later turned into an entertainment district. The temple was a popular place for stage performances and rakugo storytelling during the 17th century. The main hall of the temple was destroyed during the World War 2 air raids and only the Fudo-myoo statue survived the attacks. But the whole temple incl. the main hall (Konpira-do) was soon reconstructed by the Osaka people.

Sightseeing spots

Top:

Fudo-myoo statue - The statue represents one of the five Myoo (Wisdom Kings).

Hozenji Yokocho Alley - More than 60 izakaya´s and restaurants are located along this alley and you can enjoy the unique atmosphere from the old days here.

Festival & Events (dates can change without notice)

July

Tenjin Matsuri Festival (24th till 25th)
Osaka’s greatest traditional festival (over 1000 years old) and ranked as one of the top 3 festivals in Japan. Enjoy spectacular processions on land and in the water, great fireworks, and a unique atmosphere created by the traditional costumes and music. My must-see recommendation for you.

August

Hozenji Yokocho Festival (10th - 11th)
Enjoy this festival dedicated to the real/essence of Naniwa (Osaka). Visit a Bunraku play (Japanese puppet show), rakugo performance (storytelling) and try some delicious food there.