Hozenji - Osaka

Located in 1 Chome-2-16 Nanba, Chuo Ward which is not far from Dotonbori Bridge in Osaka City, Osaka Prefecture in Japan, Hozenji (法善寺) is a very small temple tucked in the famed Dotonbori area.

Hozenji

Hozenji History

Hozenji was built sometime in 1637. The temple pays homage to Fudo Myo-o, one of the five Myoo or Wisdom Kings. These kings are said to be the guardians of Buddhism and more specifically the Five Wisdom Buddhas. Fudo Myoo is usually depicted holding a sword that represents the wisdom that can cut through ignorance. He is usually accompanied by two smaller statues named Kongara and Seitako (they are his attendants).

Hozenji - Osaka City, Osaka

Going through the Hozenji Yokocho

In Japan, the swastika is a symbol for temples 

You should be patient if you're visiting this place...

I wonder what those are...

Hozenji
The moss-covered statue of Fudo Myo-o

Pilgrim sprinkling water at the moss-covered statue

Fudo Myo-o is a spirit that represents discipline

Unlike the bigger temples, worshipers do not toss coins as offering in Hozenji. Instead, they splash some water on the statue of the deity found in the heart of the temple. Over the years (and the frequent splashing of water) the statue of the deity is now covered by a soft green carpet of moss.

Check out that line of people waiting to splash the statue with water.

We visited Hozenji during our 12th day of our 2014-2015 Japan trip. The place was really small but still, a lot of people frequent it. According to Mr. Toshi, the temple is visited mostly by businessmen because it is said that praying there would make your business successful.

The street right outside Hozenji

Although I wasn't able to douse the statue of Fudo Myo-o with water and I also don't own a business (yet), I still wished for success in my field of work (higher salary please!)

Hozenji Entrance Fee

It's FREE to visit and explore Hozenji and its grounds. However, it is highly appreciated if you would give a donation.

Hozenji Operating Hours

Hozenji is open 24/7.

Why visit Hozenji?

Hozenji is a good side trip when you are in Dotonbori. It's a small place that you can explore in less than 5 minutes. If you believe in wishes, you may wish for success in your business here.

Getting to Hozenji:  



From Kansai International Airport ride a Nankai train going to Namba Station. The trip would probably take about 45-50 minutes. From the station the temple is about 10 to 15 minutes walk away.


Ratings:

Pilgrims
Cleanliness
Overall rating

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