Shitenno-ji, Osaka - an aerial view of a city with tall buildings
1 / 10

Shitenno-ji Osaka

4.3
·12k reviews·Osaka, Japan

Japan's oldest temple, founded in 593 AD, offering a serene escape with a five-story pagoda and tranquil gardens.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Shitenno-ji, Osaka - an aerial view of a city with tall buildings

Shitenno-ji Osaka

Best Time

Early mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Japan's oldest temple, founded in 593 AD, offering a serene escape with a five-story pagoda and tranquil gardens.

4.3
(12k reviews)

"Explore the grounds at night for a peaceful, atmospheric experience unlike any other. Reddit"

Vertical photo
TIP

🌙 Explore Grounds at Night

Temple facilities close early, but the grounds are reportedly open all night for a peaceful, atmospheric stroll.

📅 Check Flea Market Dates

The antique/flea market at Shitennoji can be a fun experience if you catch it on the right day.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Five-Story Pagoda

Five-Story Pagoda

Central Courtyard

A striking symbol of Buddhist architecture, offering a glimpse into ancient Japanese design and spirituality.

Tranquil Ponds

Tranquil Ponds

Temple Grounds

Serene water features with turtles, providing peaceful spots for reflection amidst the temple's historic ambiance.

Ancient Statues

Ancient Statues

Various Halls

Discover intricate Buddhist sculptures that tell stories of faith and history, showcasing masterful craftsmanship.

Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit to Shitenno-ji

While Shitennoji Temple is a historic gem, many visitors note that its facilities close in the early afternoon. Plan to explore the temple grounds, which are reportedly accessible at night, for a more serene experience. Reddit

Navigating Osaka's Must-Sees

Shitennoji Temple is often listed among Osaka's iconic spots, alongside Dotonbori and Osaka Castle. Consider grouping your visit with other nearby attractions to maximize your time in the city. TikTokInstagram

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour light
Crowd
Medium
When
Evenings (grounds)
Why
Unique nighttime access
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Here are some of my favorite places in Osaka, that I’ve visited in 3 days!✨ #osakatips #osakatrip #osakamustgoplaces #osakamustvisit #osakajapan #shinsekai #dotonbori #osakacastle #nambayasakashrine #...
@vik_n
36.8K likes • 898K views

🌙 Explore Grounds at Night

Temple facilities close early, but the grounds are reportedly open all night for a peaceful, atmospheric stroll. Reddit

📅 Check Flea Market Dates

The antique/flea market at Shitennoji can be a fun experience if you catch it on the right day. Reddit

First time in Osaka? Allow me to take you to all the iconic spots that will level up your trip 🥢🏯🇯🇵 1. Eat takoyaki (octopus balls). Osaka’s soul food that can be found everywhere. 2. Stroll down Doto...
@hangrybynature
34.9K likes • 764.4K views
👆DM me and I’ll create your personalized Japan Travel Itinerary!
🗾 Get the Map from the link in my Bio! 🙋‍♂️Follow me @kaifromjapan01 for more Japan Travel Tips!! ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ <BEST OSAKA BUCKET...
kaifromjapan01
8.4K likes • 569.9K views

🚶‍♀️ Combine with Nearby Sights

Shitennoji is often visited with other Osaka highlights like Namba Yasaka Shrine. TikTokInstagram

📸 Capture the Pagoda

The iconic five-story pagoda is a must-see and a great photo opportunity. Instagram

10 MUST-SEE places in OSAKA🇯🇵 1. Shinsekai 2. Dotonbori 3. Tsutenkaku Tower 4. Hozenji Yokocho 5. Namba Yasaka Shrine 6. Umeda Sky Building 7. Abeno Harukas 8. Katsuo-ji Temple 9. USJ 10. Shitennoji ...
lovemari.japan
80.7K likes • 2M views

Tips

from all over the internet

🌙 Explore Grounds at Night

Temple facilities close early, but the grounds are reportedly open all night for a peaceful, atmospheric stroll. Reddit

📅 Check Flea Market Dates

The antique/flea market at Shitennoji can be a fun experience if you catch it on the right day. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Combine with Nearby Sights

Shitennoji is often visited with other Osaka highlights like Namba Yasaka Shrine. TikTokInstagram

📸 Capture the Pagoda

The iconic five-story pagoda is a must-see and a great photo opportunity. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.3
(12k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Shitennoji Temple is praised for its historical significance and peaceful atmosphere, with many appreciating the ability to explore the grounds at night. Some visitors note that key facilities close early, so planning around these hours is essential for a full experience.

"We came to Shitennoji to see all the temples in the area. It is somewhat from the train station, we had to walk a bit during hot summer day. There’s a small entrance fee to get the tickets to enter. The premise has some really huge temples. They look amazing. Lots of tourists visit this spot for its spiritual values. It takes about half an hour to an hour to explore the area. Outside of the temple premises there are few more things to explore like stone statues, tombs, and prayer rooms."

Nehal Ahmed

"As a tourist and a Buddhist, I cannot recommend this temple enough. Walking through the gates of the temple grounds, one can feel the history of the temple and realize how serene the temple is. The main halls of the temples are also air conditioned so it is a good place to escape from Osaka’s nasty summer heat. The main halls of the temples are not a place of worship, with the statues of Buddha and the goddess of mercy, there are also murals which show stories from Buddhism and the life of Buddha. I do recommend anyone to come and take a look!"

Michael Chiang

"One of the best temples in Osaka Japan , if you could go visit in daylight would be cool ! There were many Japanese people taking their dogs for a walk in the areas ! Very friendly people and interesting place to go ! Even at night! Give us a completely different perspective for our visit ."

Linlin Chai

What People Like

Historic grounds
Peaceful ambiance
Nighttime access

What People Dislike

Early closing times

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Shitennoji Temple is easily accessible via public transport. Take the JR Tennoji Station or the Osaka Metro Tanimachi Line to Shitennoji-mae Yuhigaoka Station. From there, it's a short walk to the temple grounds. TikTok

Yes, Shitennoji Temple is often visited alongside other popular Osaka spots like Namba Yasaka Shrine and the bustling Dotonbori area. Instagram+1

The Osaka Metro is very efficient for getting between major attractions. Consider purchasing a day pass if you plan on visiting multiple sites. TikTok

Yes, it's a pleasant walk from Tennoji Station, taking about 10-15 minutes. The area around the station offers many dining and shopping options. Reddit

The Osaka Metro Tanimachi Line's Shitennoji-mae Yuhigaoka Station is the closest to the temple, offering direct access. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

While the temple facilities typically close in the early afternoon, the temple grounds themselves are often accessible throughout the night, offering a unique experience. Reddit

Entry to the main temple grounds is generally free. However, there may be separate admission fees for specific buildings like the Treasure House or the Gokuraku-jodo Garden. Instagram

Access to the five-story pagoda usually requires a separate ticket. It's best to check on-site for current pricing and availability. Instagram

Shitennoji Temple is usually open on public holidays, but it's advisable to check their official website for any special closures or altered hours. Expect larger crowds. TikTok

Information on discounts is not widely publicized. It's recommended to inquire at the ticket counter for any potential group or student rates. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Don't miss the iconic five-story pagoda, the serene ponds with turtles, and the various ancient Buddhist statues housed within the temple halls. Instagram+1

Absolutely! The five-story pagoda, the traditional architecture, and the tranquil gardens offer numerous picturesque opportunities. The golden hour light can be particularly beautiful. Instagram

Visitors often describe the atmosphere as peaceful and serene, offering a welcome respite from the city's hustle and bustle. The nighttime grounds can be especially atmospheric. Reddit

Yes, Shitennoji Temple occasionally hosts an antique/flea market, which can be a unique cultural experience if your visit coincides. Reddit

To fully appreciate the temple grounds and its key features, allocate at least 1-2 hours. If you plan to visit specific buildings with entry fees, allow more time. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

While the temple itself focuses on its spiritual significance, there are usually vending machines for drinks. For a wider selection of food, explore the areas around Tennoji Station or nearby Tennoji Park. Reddit

The vicinity of Tennoji Station offers a variety of dining options, from casual eateries to more formal restaurants. You can find Japanese staples like ramen, udon, and tempura. TikTok

Picnicking is generally not permitted within the main temple areas to maintain the sanctity of the site. However, you might find designated areas in nearby parks like Tennoji Park. Reddit

For iconic Osaka street food like takoyaki and okonomiyaki, head towards the Dotonbori area, which is a short train ride away. TikTok

While traditional Japanese cuisine can be meat-heavy, many restaurants in Osaka are becoming more accommodating. Look for restaurants offering vegetable-based dishes or inquire about vegetarian options. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The five-story pagoda is a prime subject, especially when framed by the temple's traditional architecture. The tranquil ponds and garden areas also offer beautiful compositions. Instagram

Photography rules can vary for different buildings within the temple complex. It's essential to look for signage indicating where photos are permitted or prohibited. Instagram

Early mornings offer soft light and fewer people, ideal for capturing the serene atmosphere. Late afternoons provide a warm, golden hour glow, particularly beautiful on the pagoda. Instagram

Drone usage is typically prohibited at religious sites and historical landmarks to ensure the safety and tranquility of visitors and the preservation of the site. TikTok

For commercial photography or filming, it's advisable to contact the temple administration in advance to obtain necessary permissions and understand any associated fees or guidelines. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Shitennoji Temple offers a blend of history and nature that can engage younger visitors. The tranquil ponds with turtles are often a hit with children, providing a simple yet captivating natural element. The five-story pagoda is visually impressive and can spark curiosity about ancient structures. Instagram

While the temple is a place of worship, the spacious grounds allow for some movement. Consider visiting during the day when facilities are open, but be aware that many buildings have limited access. The nearby Tennoji Park offers playgrounds and open spaces for children to run around, making it a good complement to a temple visit. Reddit

🚶 Budget Travelers

Shitennoji Temple is an excellent choice for budget-conscious travelers as entry to the main temple grounds is generally free. While some specific buildings or gardens may have a small admission fee, you can still experience the essence of the temple without significant expense. Instagram

To save further, pack your own snacks or enjoy affordable local eateries around Tennoji Station. Utilize Osaka's efficient public transport, and consider a day pass if you plan to visit multiple attractions. The ability to explore the grounds at night for free is also a major plus. Reddit

🧘 Solo Travelers

For solo travelers seeking a moment of peace and reflection, Shitennoji Temple is ideal. The serene atmosphere and the opportunity to explore the grounds at your own pace, especially during the nighttime access, offer a unique contemplative experience. Reddit

It's also a great spot to practice photography or simply soak in the historical ambiance without the pressure of group tours. The temple's accessibility via public transport makes it easy to incorporate into a solo itinerary, and it's often mentioned alongside other key Osaka sights. TikTokInstagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The History and Significance of Shitenno-ji

Founded in 593 AD by Prince Shotoku, Shitenno-ji Temple is one of Japan's oldest officially administered temples. It played a pivotal role in the introduction and spread of Buddhism in Japan. Although the current structures are largely reconstructions due to fires and earthquakes, the temple meticulously preserves the original layout and spirit of its ancient design. The temple complex is a testament to early Japanese Buddhist architecture and urban planning. Reddit

Prince Shotoku was a regent who championed Buddhism and introduced many Chinese cultural elements to Japan. His patronage of Shitenno-ji cemented its status as a center of religious and cultural activity. The temple's design, including its central axis layout, influenced the construction of many other temples across Japan. Visiting Shitennoji offers a unique opportunity to connect with this foundational period of Japanese history and spirituality. Reddit

Today, Shitennoji continues to be an active place of worship and a significant cultural heritage site. Visitors can explore its various halls, pagodas, and gardens, gaining insight into the enduring legacy of Prince Shotoku and the profound impact of Buddhism on Japanese society. The temple's resilience through centuries of change makes it a powerful symbol of continuity and faith. Reddit

Exploring the Temple Grounds and Architecture

The Shitenno-ji Temple complex is designed with a central axis, featuring a series of gates, halls, and a striking five-story pagoda. The Kondo (Golden Hall) houses important Buddhist statues, while the Kodo (Lecture Hall) is where monks would traditionally teach. The Gokuraku-jodo Garden, designed to represent the Pure Land of Amida Buddha, offers a serene escape with its meticulously maintained flora and tranquil ponds. Instagram

The five-story pagoda is a central icon, standing tall and offering a glimpse into traditional Japanese architectural styles. While climbing to the top might not always be possible, its exterior is a magnificent sight. The temple grounds are also dotted with smaller shrines and statues, each with its own story and significance. Keep an eye out for the Great Gate (Chushomon) and the Central Gate (Chumon), which mark the progression through the sacred space. Instagram

Many visitors appreciate the peaceful atmosphere of the temple, especially outside of peak hours. The ponds, often inhabited by turtles, add to the tranquil ambiance. Even though many buildings are reconstructions, the overall experience evokes a sense of history and spiritual calm. Remember to check for any specific rules regarding photography within certain halls. Reddit

Experiencing Shitennoji's Nighttime Charm

A unique aspect of Shitennoji Temple is the accessibility of its grounds even after the main facilities have closed. While the inner buildings and treasure house will be shut, the temple grounds themselves are reportedly open all night. This offers a rare opportunity to experience the sacred space in a completely different light – under the stars. Reddit

Visiting at night can provide a profoundly peaceful and atmospheric experience, free from the daytime crowds. Imagine walking through the ancient pathways, with the silhouette of the pagoda against the night sky. It's a chance to connect with the temple's spiritual essence in a more intimate way. Reddit

This nighttime access is a tip often shared by locals and seasoned travelers looking for a quieter, more reflective visit. It’s a perfect option for those who enjoy exploring after sunset or want to avoid the typical tourist rush. Just be mindful of your surroundings and maintain a respectful demeanor. Reddit

You may also like

1 of 2