Hozen-ji Temple: A Moss-Covered Oasis in Dotonbori
Find serenity in the heart of Osaka at Hozen-ji Temple, where the moss-covered Mizukake Fudo statue grants wishes and offers a peaceful escape.
Nestled in the heart of Osaka's bustling Namba district, Hozen-ji Temple offers a tranquil escape from the surrounding chaos. Founded in 1637, this small Buddhist temple is dedicated to Fudo Myoo, one of the five Wisdom Kings of Buddhism. Unlike the fierce depictions of Fudo Myoo, the temple's statue is covered in lush green moss, a testament to the unique tradition of splashing water on it while making a wish. This practice has earned the statue the nickname 'Mizukake Fudo,' meaning 'water-throwing Fudo'. Hozen-ji Temple was once a hub for stage performances and rakugo storytelling in the 17th century. Although the temple was destroyed during World War II, the Fudo-Myoo statue miraculously survived. The main hall was reconstructed, and the temple continues to be a place of peace and reflection for locals and tourists alike. Adjacent to the temple is Hozenji Yokocho, a narrow cobblestone alleyway lined with traditional restaurants and bars. The alley exudes an old-world charm, especially in the evening when the lanterns are lit, creating a magical atmosphere. Hozenji Yokocho offers a glimpse into Osaka's past and is a perfect spot to savor local cuisine.
Local tips
- Visit in the early morning or evening to avoid crowds and experience the temple's serene atmosphere.
- Bring a small bottle of water to participate in the tradition of splashing the Mizukake Fudo statue for good luck.
- Explore Hozenji Yokocho, the charming alleyway next to the temple, for a taste of old Osaka and local culinary delights.
A brief summary to Hozen-ji Temple
- 1 Chome-2-16 Namba, Osaka, 1 Chome Namba, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 542-0076, JP
- +816-6211-4152
Getting There
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Walking
From Dotonbori Bridge, walk south into the covered shopping arcade towards Namba. Turn left at the intersection near the Bookoff bookstore and ABC Mart shoe store. Walk one block, and you'll arrive at Hozen-ji Temple. The temple entrance is tucked away on a street running south from Dotonbori.
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Public Transport
Take the Midosuji or Sennichimae Subway Line to Namba Station. Exit at Exit 14 and walk for 5 minutes to Hozen-ji Temple. Alternatively, take the Kintetsu Line to Osaka Namba Station and walk for 5 minutes. From either station, follow signs for Dotonbori and then walk south into the covered shopping arcade. Follow the walking directions from Dotonbori Bridge.
Attractions Nearby to Hozen-ji Temple
Landmarks nearby to Hozen-ji Temple
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スパイダーマンの館
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Ebisu Bashi-Suji Shopping Street
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Ebisubashi Bridge
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3-chōme-1-15 Namba
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Shinsaibashi Shopping Street Promotion Association
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Zyanose-Loveless-EP Rooftop
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Triangle Park (Sankaku Park)
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Shinsaibashi
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Namba Yasaka Jinjya Shrine
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Nipponbashi Denden Town
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Osaka Convention & Tourism Bureau
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Shingonzaka
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Kuchinawazaka
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Tsūtenkaku
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Isshin-ji Temple