Shitennoji Temple in Minoo Area
Shitennoji Temple is a historic Buddhist temple located in the Minoo area of Osaka, Japan. It is one of the oldest temples in Japan and was founded in 593 by Prince Shotoku, who is considered to be one of the most important figures in Japanese history.
History
The temple was built to honor the Four Heavenly Kings, which are the guardians of the four directions in Buddhism. It was also built to promote Buddhism in Japan and to unify the country under a single religion. Over the centuries, Shitennoji Temple has been destroyed and rebuilt several times due to fires and wars.
| Year | Event |
|---|---|
| 593 | Shitennoji Temple is founded by Prince Shotoku |
| 1599 | The temple is destroyed during the Siege of Osaka |
| 1623 | The temple is rebuilt by Tokugawa Hidetada |
| 1945 | The temple is partially destroyed during World War II |
| 1963 | The temple is completely rebuilt |
Architecture
Shitennoji Temple features a mix of architectural styles from different periods in Japanese history. The main gate, called the Chumon, is a typical example of the early Edo period. The five-story pagoda, which is the oldest wooden building in Japan, dates back to the 17th century. The main hall, called the Kondo, was rebuilt in 1963 and features a modern design.
Things to See and Do
- Visit the main hall, which houses a statue of Prince Shotoku
- Explore the pagoda and enjoy the views from the top
- See the Chumon gate, which is decorated with intricate carvings
- Visit the treasure house, which displays important artifacts from the temple's history
- Attend one of the temple's many festivals, such as the Shitennoji Flea Market or the New Year's Eve Bell Ringing Ceremony
Location and Hours
Shitennoji Temple is located at 1-11-18 Shitennoji, Tennoji-ku, Osaka 543-0051, Japan. The temple is open daily from 8:30am to 4:30pm. Admission fees vary depending on which parts of the temple you wish to visit.
Latitude: 34.6530° N
Longitude: 135.5189° E