Temples and shrines in Osaka

Osaka's Sacred Temples & Shrines

Osaka’s spiritual landscape spans nearly two millennia, from the 3rd-century Sumiyoshi Taisha, showcasing rare Sumiyoshi-zukuri architecture, to Shitennoji, one of Japan’s first Buddhist foundations. This selection includes the iconic lion-headed Namba Yasaka Shrine, the moss-clad Mizukake Fudo at Hozen-ji, and Sukunahikona-jinja, the center of medicine worship. These sites reflect the city's history through imperial connections, merchant traditions, and unique rituals like the creation of bone-ash Buddha statues at Isshin-ji.

Osaka's Sacred Temples & Shrines — Map

利用者:Stanislaus / Public domain

A

Sumiyoshi Taisha

Founded in 211 AD, this magnificent shrine is dedicated to three deities protecting the nation, sea voyagers and celebrating waka poetry.

663highland / CC BY 2.5

B

Shitennoji

One of the oldest Buddhist temples in Japan. The temple was completely rebuilt in 1963, but it still retains its former charm.

Saigen Jiro / CC0

C

Ikukunitama Shrine

This charming Shinto shrine was built in the 16th century. Visit this hidden gem and enjoy its peaceful and slightly mysterious atmosphere.

663highland / CC BY 2.5

D

Osaka Tenmangu Shrine (Ōsaka Tenmangū)

Founded in the 10th century, this is the most famous Tenjin shrine in Japan.

Sygic Travel User / CC-BY-SA

E

Namba Yasaka Shrine

Famous for its massive 12-meter-high stage shaped like a lion's head (Shishiden), this shrine is believed to swallow evil spirits and bring luck for success in business and academic exams.

nnh / Public domain

F

Tamatsukuri Inari Shrine

Supposedly dating back to the 12th century, this charming shrine is dedicated to the Shinto god Inari.

KENPEI / CC-BY-SA-3.0

G

Isshinji

Isshin-ji is a Pure Land Buddhist temple in Osaka, Japan. Starting in the Meiji period, thirteen images have been formed, each incorporating…

Ogiyoshisan / Public domain

H

Billiken shrine

A strange looking statue of a god called Billiken sits in this shrine.

Aimaimyi / CC BY-SA 3.0

I

Hōzen-ji

Built in 1637, this quaint temple is located in a truly atmospheric area. It is known especially for its moss-covered Buddha statue.

663highland / CC BY 2.5

J

Dainenbutsu-ji

Dainenbutsu-ji is a Buddhist temple in Hirano-ku, Osaka, Japan. It was founded in 1127.

久次米一弥 / CC BY 3.0

K

高津宮

Dedicated to Emperor Nintoku, this Shinto shrine marks the site of an ancient 4th-century palace. Rebuilt after WWII, it is situated on a hill and serves as a primary venue for classical rakugo performances.

聖石大戦ぶぅぶぅ / CC BY-SA 4.0

L

Senkou-ji

Senkō-ji is a Buddhist temple in Hirano-ku, Osaka Prefecture, Japan.

KENPEI / CC-BY-SA-3.0

M

Sukunahikona-jinja Shrine

Located in the Doshomachi pharmaceutical district, this shrine is dedicated to the deities of medicine. It remains a focal point for health-related prayers and features a small museum of medicinal history.

KENPEI / CC-BY-SA-3.0

N

堀越神社

One of the seven protective shrines established by Prince Shotoku to safeguard Shitennoji Temple. It is traditionally known for a sacred tree and the belief that it grants one wish in a lifetime.

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