Introduction
Shitennoji Temple is one of Japan’s oldest temples and the first ever to be built by the state. Founded in 593 AD, this ancient temple not only witnessed the rise of Buddhism in Japan but has also become a unique cultural treasure of Osaka City.
Key Information
- Founded: 593 AD
- Founder: Prince Shotoku
- Location: Tennoji-ku, Osaka City
- Main Features: Five-storied Pagoda, Main Hall (Kondo), Gokuraku-jodo Garden
- Admission: 300 yen (inner precinct), 300 yen (garden), 500 yen (treasure house)
Rich History
The Introduction of Buddhism and Birth of Shitennoji
Shitennoji was established in 593 AD by Prince Shotoku, who supported the introduction of Buddhism into Japan. As the first official temple in Japan, Shitennoji witnessed how Buddhism gradually integrated into Japanese culture, becoming a significant force in shaping Japanese society.
Although the temple’s buildings burned down several times over the centuries, they were always carefully reconstructed to reflect the original 6th-century design. This persistent restoration work has made Shitennoji an excellent window into early Japanese Buddhist architectural styles.
The name “Shitennoji” derives from the concept of the Four Heavenly Kings in Buddhism, symbolizing the temple’s spiritual and physical protection of its followers. Over time, Shitennoji has become not just an important religious site, but also a center for cultural dissemination, education, and charity.
Architectural Features and Cultural Heritage
Shitennoji’s layout follows the ancient “Shichido Garan” traditional complex structure, including the Middle Gate, Main Hall, Lecture Hall, Bell Tower, Sutra Repository, Corridor, and Pagoda. The most eye-catching among these are the Five-storied Pagoda and the Main Hall (Kondo) located in the inner precinct.
The Five-storied Pagoda soars into the sky, serving not only as the visual focal point of the temple but also as an outstanding example of traditional Japanese wooden architectural craftsmanship. Visitors can climb the tower to overlook the entire temple landscape and appreciate the wisdom of ancient artisans.
The Kondo, as the main hall of the temple, enshrines a statue of Prince Shotoku as Kannon Bodhisattva. The architectural style and interior decorations of the Kondo perfectly showcase the artistic aesthetics of the Asuka period, making it an important site for studying early Japanese Buddhist art.
In addition to these main buildings, Shitennoji preserves numerous precious Buddhist artifacts and artworks. The temple’s treasure house hosts regular themed exhibitions, displaying various paintings, scriptures, and temple treasures, providing visitors with an opportunity to delve deeper into the development of Japanese Buddhist art.
Main Attractions
Five-storied Pagoda
The Five-storied Pagoda of Shitennoji is one of the oldest pagoda-style buildings in Japan, standing about 40 meters tall and consisting of five wooden structures. Each level has protruding eaves, forming a typical Japanese tower style. The body of the tower is painted with vermilion lacquer, shimmering in the sunlight and becoming the most eye-catching landmark of the temple.
Visitors can enter the pagoda and climb the narrow stairs level by level. Each floor has a small exhibition introducing the history and architectural features of the tower. From the top floor, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Osaka City, especially stunning on clear days.
The Five-storied Pagoda is not only an architectural gem but also an embodiment of the Buddhist cosmic view. The five-layer structure symbolizes the five elements of earth, water, fire, wind, and void, reflecting the Buddhist understanding of the universe’s composition. The jewel at the top of the tower represents the essence of Buddhist teachings and is one of the most sacred parts of the temple.
Main Hall (Kondo)
The Kondo is the main hall of Shitennoji and the venue for important Buddhist services and ceremonies. The exterior of the building is solemn and dignified, while the interior is lavishly decorated. In the center of the Kondo, a statue of Prince Shotoku as Kannon Bodhisattva is enshrined, flanked by statues of the Four Heavenly Kings.
The ceiling of the Kondo is painted with exquisite flying celestials, and the walls are adorned with murals depicting Buddhist stories. These artworks are not only of religious significance but also important materials for understanding early Japanese Buddhist artistic styles.
Visitors can worship in the Kondo and feel its solemn atmosphere. On important Buddhist festivals, such as the Nirvana Assembly on the 15th day of the first lunar month, special services are held in the Kondo, attracting numerous devotees.
Gokuraku-jodo Garden
The Gokuraku-jodo Garden is a unique landscape within Shitennoji, designed based on descriptions of the Western Paradise of the Amida Buddha. The garden covers about 1,500 square meters and includes a central pond with several small islands, symbolizing the lotus world in Buddhism.
Various flowers, plants, and trees are planted in the garden, offering different scenery throughout the four seasons. In spring, visitors can enjoy cherry blossoms and azaleas; in summer, lotus flowers bloom; in autumn, maple leaves turn red. Stone lanterns and bridges in the garden add a touch of Zen, making it an ideal place for meditation and relaxation.
Visitors can stroll along the garden paths and appreciate the carefully designed landscape. In one corner of the garden, there is a small tea house where you can enjoy a cup of matcha, further immersing yourself in the charm of traditional Japanese culture.
Best Time to Visit
Shitennoji is open all year round, with each season offering its unique charm. However, the following periods are particularly worth a visit:
- Spring (late March to early April): Cherry blossoms are in full bloom, enveloping the temple in a sea of pink flowers.
- Autumn (October to November): During the fall foliage season, the maple trees in the garden turn red, creating a breathtaking scenery.
- 21st of each month: Memorial services for Prince Shotoku are held, allowing visitors to experience traditional Buddhist rituals.
- New Year period: New Year blessing activities are held, offering a chance to experience the atmosphere of traditional Japanese festivals.
Getting There
Shitennoji is conveniently located in central Osaka:
- By Subway: Take the Tanimachi Line to Shitennoji-mae-Yuhigaoka Station. The temple is about a 5-minute walk from the station.
- By JR: Get off at Tennoji Station on the JR Osaka Loop Line and walk north for about 10 minutes.
- By Bus: Several city bus routes stop at the Shitennoji bus stop.
From major Osaka attractions to Shitennoji:
- From Osaka Castle: Take the JR Loop Line to Tennoji Station, about 20 minutes.
- From Dotonbori: Take the Midosuji Subway Line to Dobutsuen-mae Station, then transfer to the Tanimachi Line, about 30 minutes in total.
Hours and Admission
Hours:
- 8:30 to 16:30 (until 16:00 from October through March)
- Slightly longer hours on the 21st of each month and on some special days
Admission:
- Inner Precinct: 300 yen
- Gokuraku-jodo Garden: 300 yen
- Treasure House: 500 yen
- Combo tickets available for a discount
Note: The treasure house may have long closures between exhibitions. Please check in advance.
Visitor Tips
- Dress appropriately: Shitennoji is an important religious site, please dress neatly and modestly.
- Keep quiet: Please maintain silence during your visit out of respect for other worshippers.
- Photography rules: Most areas allow photography, but pay attention to signs as some places prohibit the use of flash.
- Plan ahead: If you want to participate in special events or services, it’s advisable to check the schedule in advance.
- Prepare coins: For convenience in buying tickets and incense, it’s recommended to prepare enough coins.
- Comfortable shoes: The temple complex is quite large, so wear comfortable walking shoes.
- Allow enough time: A full visit takes at least 2-3 hours.
Official Website
Conclusion
Shitennoji is not just an important landmark in Japanese Buddhist history, but also a cultural treasury that blends history, art, and spirituality. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, an architecture buff, or a traveler seeking inner peace, Shitennoji is worth exploring in depth. Here, you can touch the roots of Japanese culture and feel the timeless truth of Buddha’s teachings. On your next visit to Osaka, be sure to put Shitennoji on your must-visit list. It’s sure to leave you with unforgettable memories.