The Backpack Adventures

The first time I visited Hozenji ( 法善寺 ) was on December 30 th , 2014 , during our first trip to Japan. During that trip, my family and I were accompanied by our Japanese friends. It was a memorable trip as it was a side trip during our Dotonbori exploration. Hozenji I revisited Hozenji on November 20, 2023 , during the third day of my 4-Day Osaka Solo Trip 2023 . It was also my 749th day in Japan as an ALT under the JET Programme . I was traveling alone on this trip, with Hozenji as my main destination and Dotonbori as a side trip. Hozenji - Osaka City, Osaka Prefecture Since I wrote about Hozenji before, here’s a summary of Hozenji's details. A Glimpse into Hozenji’s History Hozenji was founded around 1637 during the Edo Period. The temple enshrines Fudo Myo-o , one of the Five Wisdom Kings (Myoo) — guardians who protect Buddhist teachings. Fudo Myo-o, whose name means “Immovable Wisdom King,” is usually portrayed holding a sword to symbolize wisdom that cuts throu...

Todaiji   ( 東大寺 ) , an iconic symbol of Japan’s rich cultural and historical legacy, has been a significant destination for our family. Our initial visit on January 3, 2015 , was an awe-inspiring experience, and returning on December 21, 2019 , with my parents and siblings only deepened our appreciation. Most recently, on January 11, 2023 , which marked my 436th day in Japan as an ALT under the JET Programme , we had the pleasure of revisiting this magnificent temple. Each visit has offered a unique perspective on Todaiji ’s enduring grandeur. Todaiji Todaiji Details Todaiji , located in Nara Park, is renowned for its historical significance and architectural splendor. Established in 728 and completed in its current form in 752, the temple was originally built to symbolize the power of the imperial family and the Buddhist faith. It is home to the Great Buddha (Daibutsu) , a colossal bronze statue standing over 15 meters tall, which is one of Japan’s most revered icons. Todaiji - ...