For many visitors to Japan, seeing the diverse array of powerful temples that dot the landscape is at the top of their list. The Shitennoji Temple was the first Buddhist temple ever built in Japan and is considered by many to be a highlight of their stay in Osaka. Walk through its dramatic but tranquil gardens to see Buddhist artefacts and learn about the role of religion in Japan.
Built by Prince Shotoku in 593, the temple was the product of a long war between those that followed the Buddhist faith and the fervent followers of Japan’s traditional gods. The temple’s role was to show how powerful Buddhism could be. This can still be seen in its architecture and layout today.
Stand in the centre of the temple to surround yourself with the majestic trimmings of the inner precinct and its five-storey pagoda. Duck to squeeze through the low door frames and climb the steps to the top of the pagoda for a nice view of the complex.
In the main hall, see a statue of Prince Shotoku surrounded by great murals depicting the story of the Shakyamuni Buddha. Arrive early in the morning to witness the pink hues of the sunrise wash over the temple.
Leave the buildings to explore the stunning temple grounds. The peaceful Gokuraku-jodo Garden is a great place to learn about the Western Gardens of Buddhist mythology, which its design was based on.
Stop by the temple’s treasure house to see traditional paintings, scripts and artefacts. There is a rotating roster of exhibitions within the house. A schedule can be found on the temple’s official website.
On the 21st or 22nd of each month the grounds of Shitennoji Temple host a monthly market. Buy handmade souvenirs and local delicacies like cold soba, a tasty noodle soup. Check the website to find out when the market is on.
Shitennoji Temple is open daily. Separate fees apply for the Gokuraku-jodo Garden, the inner precinct and the treasure house. There is free parking outside the complex and the temple is easily reached on Osaka’s efficient metro system.
