Shitennoji Temple

Map

History & Origins

It is said that in 593 (the 1st year of Empress Suiko's reign), during the battle with Mononobe no Moriya, Prince Shotoku prayed to the Four Heavenly Kings for victory and built the temple after winning. It has been revered ever since as the center of 'Taishi worship'. It was destroyed by fire in wars repeatedly but rebuilt each time, and in 1963 the present reinforced-concrete complex was restored.

Highlights

The 'Shitennoji-style layout', in which the Nandaimon, Niomon, five-story pagoda, Kondo and Kodo are lined up in a straight line, is known as the oldest architectural style in Japan. Its cultural properties include National Treasures such as the fan-shaped Lotus Sutra booklets and the Seven-Star Sword. The grounds have a stone stage (Important Cultural Property), where the Shoryoe (with an offering of gagaku) is held on the 22nd of each month.

Visitor Guide

It is a 5-minute walk from Shitennoji-mae Yuhigaoka Station on the Osaka Metro Tanimachi Line, or a 10-minute walk from Tennoji Station on the JR and Osaka Metro. The grounds (outer garden) are free to enter. The admission fee for the central complex is 300 yen for adults. Some facilities, such as the Rokujido, may charge separate fees.

Best Season

The 'Ohigan-mairi' is popular during the equinox weeks in spring (March-April) and autumn (September). The Shoryoe on April 22 is a rare opportunity to hear gagaku performed as an offering.

Blessings

Annual Events

• April

  Shoryoe (Prince Shotoku Memorial Service)

  A service held every year on April 22 on the anniversary of Prince Shotoku's death. Gagaku is offered on the stone stage in the grounds.

• August

  Mandokuyo (Lantern Memorial Service)

  An event held around the Obon period to honor the spirits of ancestors, in which the grounds are decorated with countless lanterns.

Travel Plan

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