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Shitennoji

Temple

Prefecture

Osaka

Type

Temple

N/A

1 review

¥300

Entry Fee

Train Access

About This Destination

Japan's oldest officially administered Buddhist temple, founded in 593 AD by Prince Shotoku, featuring a classic garan layout with a five-story pagoda.

Shitennoji holds the distinction of being the first Buddhist temple in Japan to be built by the state, established in 593 AD by Prince Shotoku, one of the most influential figures in early Japanese Buddhism. The temple's central precinct features a classic Shitennoji-style garan layout with a main gate, pagoda, main hall, and lecture hall arranged in a straight line, a configuration that became a model for temple construction across the country. The five-story pagoda, though reconstructed in concrete after wartime destruction, faithfully reproduces the original design and offers views from its upper floors. The temple grounds also include a beautiful Japanese garden called Gokurakujodo Garden, which represents the Buddhist concept of paradise. Monthly flea markets held on the 21st and 22nd draw large crowds of locals and visitors.

Location

Prefecture: Osaka

Address: Osaka, Japan

Nearest Station: Shitennoji-mae Yuhigaoka Station

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Visitor Information

Credit Cards: Unknown

Food Options: No dining within the temple precinct, but the Tennoji area surrounding the temple has abundant food options.

Official Website

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get to Shitennoji from central Osaka?

From Namba, take the Tanimachi Subway Line one stop to Shitennoji-mae Yuhigaoka — about 8 minutes (¥190). The temple is a 5-minute walk south from Exit 4. From JR Tennoji Station, walk 10 minutes north (passing Tennoji Park). The temple grounds are open and free; only the central garan precinct, treasure house, and Gokurakujodo Garden charge admission.

What's the entry fee and what does it cover?

The central garan precinct (with the five-story pagoda, Kondo, and lecture hall) costs ¥300. The Gokurakujodo Garden is a separate ¥300, and the treasure house ranges ¥500–¥1,000 depending on exhibition. Combined ticket for all three: ¥800. Open 8:30–16:30 (16:00 from October–March). The five-story pagoda interior can be climbed (small staircase, basic mural views inside).

When is the famous flea market and what's special about it?

Held on the 21st (Daishi-e, dedicated to Kobo Daishi) and 22nd (Taishi-e, dedicated to Prince Shotoku) of every month, 8:00–16:00. Hundreds of vendors fill the temple grounds with antiques, kimono, books, ceramics, and food. The 21st is busier and skews toward Buddhist items; the 22nd is more eclectic. The April 22 (Shotoku Taishi's death anniversary) and August 9–16 (O-bon period) markets are particularly large. Free entry; arrive by 9:00 for the best finds.

What's the Tower of the Sun connection at Tennoji?

The temple gives Tennoji ward its name (Ten-no-ji = 'Heavenly King Temple'). The original Shitennoji ('Four Heavenly Kings Temple') was named for the Buddhist guardians said to have helped Prince Shotoku defeat his political rivals. Combine your visit with Tennoji Park (10 min south) and Abeno Harukas (Japan's tallest skyscraper, 15 min walk) — a satisfying half-day route covering 1,400 years of Osaka history into a contemporary skyline.