Shitennō-ji Temple

Overview

Shitennō-ji is the head temple of the Wa sect of Buddhism in the Tennōji ward of Osaka, and is counted among the seven great temples said to have been founded by Prince Shōtoku. According to the Nihon Shoki, its construction began in 593. The temple is also known by names such as Arahaka-ji, Nanba-ji (Naniwa-daiji), and Mitsu-ji, and the district and station name "Tennōji" is an abbreviation of the temple's name.

Highlights

• ●The Shitennō-ji style garan layout for which the temple is known
• ●Its standing as the head temple of the Wa sect, enshrining the Guze Kannon
• ●The Honbō Garden and Treasure Hall within the temple grounds
• ●Its role as the first site of the New Saigoku Kannon Pilgrimage and many other pilgrimage circuits

History

The Nihon Shoki records that construction began in 593, and the temple is counted among the seven great temples founded by Prince Shōtoku. It has also been handed down under names such as Arahaka-ji, Nanba-ji (Naniwa-daiji), and Mitsu-ji. Although it belonged to the Tendai sect for a period, it was originally a temple open to the study of many schools, and in 1946 it became independent as the head temple of the Wa sect.

Map

34.6539, 135.5164 · Wikidata

Suggested itinerary

1. 1Enter through the central gate to view the main halls of the Shitennō-ji style layout
2. 2Visit the main hall enshrining the Guze Kannon to learn of the principal image
3. 3Walk through the Honbō Garden to take in the temple grounds
4. 4Stop by the Treasure Hall to see items handed down at the temple

Did you know?

💡 The district and station name "Tennōji" used in the surrounding area is an abbreviation of Shitennō-ji.

Nearby spots