Shitennō-ji
4.3
(12.8k)Shitennō-ji is a restored Buddhist temple originally built in 593 AD, featuring a five-story pagoda, statues, and ponds with turtles. It's considered one of Japan's oldest officially administered temples, though its buildings have been reconstructed over centuries, most recently in 1963. The temple grounds offer a peaceful atmosphere, allowing visitors to experience a significant piece of Japanese Buddhist history.
Address
1-chōme-11-18 Shitennōji, Tennoji Ward, Osaka, 543-0051, Japan
Opening Hours
8:30 AM – 4:00 PM (Thu)
Phone
+81 6-6771-0066
Worth it?
Worth it if you want a serene, historical experience with impressive architecture
Skip if you're looking for a bustling, modern attraction. The atmosphere is generally peaceful, even during a light drizzle
Location
1-chōme-11-18 Shitennōji, Tennoji Ward, Osaka, 543-0051, Japan
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Highlights
The main hall is particularly beautiful, with Buddhist life stories depicted in an art style that some reviewers found subtly Indian-inspired and distinct from typical Japanese art.
You can climb the five-story pagoda, which many visitors find impressive.
The temple grounds are spacious and well-maintained, often hosting lively flea markets with local goods and food stalls, especially on Sundays.
A stone torii gate to the west is imagined to be the Eastern Gate to Sukhavati, the Pure Land of the West.
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Who it's for
This temple is for anyone interested in Japanese Buddhist history and architecture, or those seeking a calm, spiritual experience away from tourist crowds. It's also suitable for families, with spacious grounds to explore.
Know before you go
Souvenirs are sold on the 21st of each month.
The temple is a 5-minute walk from Shitennoji-mae Yuhigaoka Station or a 15-minute walk from Tennoji Station.
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Reviews
4.3
Very good
5 ReviewsVisitors generally find Shitennō-ji to be a special place with impressive architecture, including a climbable five-story pagoda, and a peaceful, serene atmosphere. The spacious grounds are well-maintained and sometimes host lively flea markets. Many appreciate its convenient access and the opportunity to connect with Japanese Buddhist history.
Fun facts
Shitennō-ji was founded by Prince Shōtoku in 593 AD to honor the Four Heavenly Kings in Buddhism.
The temple's initial construction involved three Korean carpenters from Baekje, who brought their knowledge to the project.
One of the members involved in the original 6th-century construction later established Kongō Gumi, the world's oldest company specializing in temple and shrine buildings.
In the Kameido hall, there is a 7th-century turtle-shaped stonework used for state rituals, which are still used today to commemorate ancestors by floating wooden sheets with their names on water.
