Shitennō-ji, Osaka
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Shitennō-ji - by Jun T on Google
Description
Shitennō-ji is a Buddhist temple in Osaka and the head temple of the Wa Sect of Buddhism. Its name can be translated as "Temple of the Four Heavenly Kings" and it was established at the end of the 6th century AD, making is possibly the first Buddhist temple in Japan, although it had to be rebuilt several times over the centuries. The complex consists of a five-story pagoda, a main Golden Pavilion (Kondō) housing an image of the Bodhisattva Kannon, a Kōdō (Lecture Hall), a museum, and a garden in the northeast corner.
Access & Transport
The temple is located in the Tennoji district, about 2km southeast of Namba station. The Shitennōji-mae Yūhigaoka Station (Tanimachi line) is just 200m from the complex and Ebisucho Station (Sakaisuji and Hankaidenki-Hankai lines) is 1km / 15mins walk away. For those who elect to drive, there is a Times car park adjacent to the Shitennoji Temple Namdaemun.
Instructions & Recommendations
Note that there are separate fees for the Central Temple, the Garden, and the Treasure Hall (museum). The Tennōji Zoo and Tsutenkaku Tower are both about a 15mins walk away.
Environmental & Social
We deem this attraction neutral from an environmental standpoint
Conclusion
One of the best temples in town but it doesn't measure up against the best in the country so your enjoyment, and therefore the decision of whether to invest time to go there, will depend on what you have already seen in Japan.
Key positive
Long history and some interesting sculptures / ornamentation
Witness local religious customs
Key negative
Visually, nothing really special
Suitability
No religious denomination restrictions and accessible for visitors with reduced mobility
About this Rating
TYPE
Desktop
RESEARCHED IN
August 2024
PROVIDER
Koreval
av. transport time:0h 30m
est. visit time:1h
Start of Season 1:Apr, 01
MONDAY08:30 - 16:30
TUESDAY08:30 - 16:30
WEDNESDAY08:30 - 16:30
THURSDAY08:30 - 16:30
FRIDAY08:30 - 16:30
SATURDAY08:30 - 16:30
SUNDAY08:30 - 16:30
Start of Season 2:Oct, 01
MONDAY08:30 - 16:00
TUESDAY08:30 - 16:00
WEDNESDAY08:30 - 16:00
THURSDAY08:30 - 16:00
FRIDAY08:30 - 16:00
SATURDAY08:30 - 16:00
SUNDAY08:30 - 16:00