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Nanshū-ji: A Zen Temple of Tranquility in Sakai

Discover a serene Zen temple in Sakai, Osaka, featuring a stunning garden, historic architecture, and deep connections to Japanese tea culture.

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Nanshū-ji is a serene Buddhist temple in Sakai, Osaka, with a rich history dating back to 1557. Belonging to the Rinzai school of Zen, it features a nationally designated scenic garden, historically significant structures, and connections to prominent tea masters.

A brief summary to Nanshu-ji

  • 3 Chome-1-2 Minamihatagochohigashi, Sakai, 3 Chome Minamihatagochohigashi, Sakai Ward, Osaka, 590-0965, JP
  • +8172-232-1654
  • Visit website
  • Monday 9 am-4 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-4 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-4 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-4 pm
  • Friday 9 am-4 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-4 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-4 pm

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning to enjoy a quieter experience and capture stunning photographs of the temple and gardens.
  • Check the temple's schedule for any cultural ceremonies or activities that may be open to visitors.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the gardens and temple grounds.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Namba Station, take the Osaka Metro Midosuji Line to Shinsaibashi Station. Transfer to the Yotsubashi Line and travel to Sakai Station. From Sakai Station, take bus number 23 or 29 from the bus terminal and get off at the 'Nanshu-ji Mae' bus stop. The bus ride is short, and the temple is a brief walk from the bus stop. Subway fare is around ¥240, and the bus fare is approximately ¥220.

  • Train

    From Osaka Station, take the JR Loop Line and transfer at Tennoji Station. Switch to the Nankai Main Line towards Namba and get off at Sakai Station. From the East exit of Sakai Station, walk straight for about 10 minutes to reach Nanshū-ji. The train fare will be around ¥300-400.

  • Walking

    From Sakai Station, take the East exit and walk straight for approximately 10 minutes. The route is well-signed, and the temple is easily accessible on foot. There are no tolls or parking fees associated with this method.

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Discover more about Nanshu-ji

Nanshū-ji, nestled in Sakai Ward, Osaka, offers a tranquil escape into Japanese Buddhist culture. Founded in 1557 by Soto Dairin at the request of Miyoshi Nagayoshi, the temple was built to honor Miyoshi's father. Over the centuries, Nanshū-ji has been destroyed and rebuilt, most notably by Takuan Sōhō in 1619 after being burned down during the Osaka Summer Campaign. The temple is renowned for its connection to the tea ceremony, having been a cultural hub for tea masters like Sen no Rikyū. Rikyū's beloved tea room, Jissoan, is located on the grounds. The dry landscape garden, created around the early Edo period, is a National Place of Scenic Beauty, incorporating a dry waterfall and carefully arranged stones. The Main Hall, Sanmon gate, and Karamon gate survived the bombing of Osaka in 1945 and are designated Important Cultural Properties. Visitors can explore the temple's historical buildings, wander through the peaceful garden, and appreciate the serene atmosphere. Nanshū-ji provides a glimpse into the world of Zen Buddhism and the refined traditions of the tea ceremony. A unique legend tells of Tokugawa Ieyasu's purported grave being located at the temple, adding to its mystique.

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