Explore Shitennoji in Osaka: Japan’s Oldest Temple and a Top Spot for New Year’s Visits!

Today, I’d like to introduce “Shitennoji,” one of Japan’s most prestigious temples located in Tennoji, Osaka!
While it’s a perfect spot for New Year’s visits (Hatsumode), visiting on a weekday offers a relatively peaceful experience where you can feel as if you’ve traveled back in time to the Asuka period.

What is Shitennoji, Japan’s Oldest State-Built Temple?

Located in Tennoji Ward, Osaka City, “Shitennoji” was founded in 593 by Prince Shotoku. It is Japan’s oldest “Kanji”—a temple established by the state.
Boasting a long and storied history, this temple is a symbol of Osaka and has been beloved by locals for centuries.

The temple’s origin dates back to when Prince Shotoku prayed to the Shitenno (the Four Heavenly Kings who guard Buddhist law) during a battle against Mononobe no Moriya.
After emerging victorious, he built this temple as an expression of his gratitude.

Shitennoji: Nandaimon (South Grand Gate)

This is the Nandaimon, which serves as the main entrance to Shitennoji.
It is a magnificent gate that exudes dignity and prestige.
You can reach this gate in about a 12-minute walk from the North Exit of Tennoji Station.

Shitennoji: Saidaimon and Ishidorii

Saidaimon (West Grand Gate)

And here is the Saidaimon, located at the western entrance.
I initially entered through the South Gate, but I went back outside specifically to see this gate and the stone torii gate just beyond it (lol).
While the design is similar to the South Gate, this one feels more flamboyant with its larger roof.
Since I visited on December 26th, it was already decorated with a “Happy New Year” banner!

Ishidorii (Stone Torii Gate)

And here is the Ishidorii.
Torii gates are usually associated with Shinto shrines, but this is a remnant of the era before the Meiji period when Shinto and Buddhism were practiced in harmony.
This gate is not just an entrance; it carries the religious meaning of being the “East Gate of the Pure Land.”

Shitennoji: Chumon (Middle Gate)

This is the Chumon.
The Kongo Rikishi (guardian statues) on either side are incredibly powerful—true guardian deities.
There are offertory boxes in front of each statue, and I have a theory that “nobody only puts money in just one side” (lol).
Of course, I made sure to put money in both!

Shitennoji-style Temple Layout

As a side note, Shitennoji is built in the “Shitennoji-style Temple Layout,” one of the oldest architectural styles in Japan, where the Middle Gate, Five-Story Pagoda, Main Hall, and Lecture Hall are aligned in a straight line from south to north.
While the Middle Gate can be seen from the outside, entering the “Central Complex” (Chunshin Garan) area to see the pagoda and halls requires an admission fee.

The Central Complex (Middle Gate, Pagoda, Main Hall, Lecture Hall)

Now, let’s enter the Central Complex (Chunshin Garan), where the primary buildings of Shitennoji are concentrated!

The admission fee for the Central Complex is 500 yen for adults, 300 yen for high school students, and free for junior high students and younger.

The Backside of the Chumon

This is the backside of the Middle Gate where the Kongo Rikishi are stationed.
This specific view can only be seen from inside the Central Complex, so don’t miss it.

Five-Story Pagoda

This is the symbol of Shitennoji, the Five-Story Pagoda!
At about 39 meters tall, it is much more imposing up close than you might expect!
The traditional Japanese architecture is truly beautiful and dignified.

You can go inside!

Amazingly, you can actually go inside this pagoda and climb to the top.
Please note that photography is prohibited and shoes are strictly forbidden inside.
Take your shoes off at the entrance, put them in the provided bag, and climb the spiral staircase. From the top floor, you can enjoy the view of the temple grounds through the windows.

Kondo (Main Hall)

Photography is also prohibited inside the Kondo.
Inside, the principal image of Shitennoji, the Kyuse Kannon Bosatsu, and the statues of the Four Heavenly Kings are enshrined.
The Buddhist mural paintings were also incredibly impressive.

Kodo (Lecture Hall)

This is the Kodo, located at the northernmost part of the Central Complex.
It houses the Eleven-faced Kannon and Amida Nyorai. Both are massive statues with stunning decorations that feel truly divine.
Photography was also prohibited here.

Capturing the Classic Shot

Finally, I took a photo from the classic spot where you can fit the Pagoda, Main Hall, and Lecture Hall in one frame.
Combined with the blue sky, it makes for a very picturesque shot!

Rokujiraisando is Under Renovation

Walking north from the Central Complex, you’ll find the Rokujiraisando. However, it is currently closed for preservation and earthquake-proofing work.
The construction period is scheduled from April 1, 2023, to March 31, 2026.
Since this hall was built in 1623, it is over 400 years old! It’s moving to think that regular restoration work like this preserves its original form for future generations.

Warodo (Rest Area)

During the construction period, the services of Rokujiraisando (memorial services, prayers, etc.) have been moved to this Warodo rest area, so please keep that in mind.

Gokuraku-jodo Garden

To the northeast of Shitennoji lies the “Gokuraku-jodo Garden,” which, as the name suggests, recreates the Buddhist Pure Land (Paradise).
It is a beautiful Japanese garden, so be sure to visit if you have the chance.
Admission is 300 yen for adults and 200 yen for students.
Unfortunately, I arrived after the garden had closed for the day (crying).

Annual Events

Shitennoji hosts many events throughout the year.
The most famous are “Taishi-e” on the 21st and “Daishi-e” on the 22nd of every month.
On these days, the temple grounds bustle with market stalls and street food.
It’s highly recommended for tourism as you can enjoy antique markets and local snacks.

You Can Give Offerings via PayPay

Visiting Shitennoji after several years, I was surprised to find that you can now give offerings via PayPay!
I had never tried a “cashless offering” before, so I decided to test it out.

It’s interesting how the screen says “Sent my feelings” rather than just “Payment completed” (lol).
It’s very convenient if you happen to be out of small change. Just be aware that not all offertory boxes have a QR code.

Access Information

Address: 1-11-18 Shitennoji, Tennoji-ku, Osaka City, Osaka

Nearest Stations:
・Approx. 5-min walk from “Shitennoji-mae Yuhigaoka Station” (Osaka Metro Tanimachi Line)
・Approx. 12-min walk from the North Exit of “JR Tennoji Station”

Hours: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM (*May vary by season)

Admission: Central Complex 500 yen / Garden 300 yen

Official Website: Shitennoji Official Homepage

*From October to March, the Central Complex and Garden close 30 minutes earlier, at 4:00 PM. We recommend arriving early to ensure you have enough time. However, the outer gates of Shitennoji are open 24 hours, so you can offer a prayer at any time. Please check the official website for site maps and further details.

Summary

Shitennoji is one of Osaka’s premier temples where you can experience history, architecture, and nature all at once.
While Dotonbori and Tsutenkaku are the staples of Osaka sightseeing, taking a short detour to Shitennoji allows you to touch the long history stretching back to the era of Prince Shotoku.
Why not spend some peaceful time in the quiet temple grounds and forget the hustle and bustle of daily life?