Restored Buddhist temple first built in 593 with a 5-story pagoda, statues & ponds with turtles.

Universal Studios Japan

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Osaka Castle

Dotonbori

Fushimi Inari Taisha

Nara Park

Shitennoji

Shitennoji, Osaka's oldest officially administered temple, uniquely embodies a synthesis of architectural styles reflecting its historical role as a gateway for Buddhism in Japan. Unlike many later temples, Shitennoji's layout meticulously adheres to a design imported directly from the Asian mainland, showcasing a linear arrangement of the main gate, pagoda, main hall, and lecture hall. This arrangement, known as the Shitennoji-style layout, is a rare surviving example of early Buddhist temple design. The temple's constant reconstruction after fires and wartime damage has resulted in a fascinating palimpsest, where ancient design principles are executed with modern materials and techniques. Interestingly, Shitennoji is dedicated to the Four Heavenly Kings, protectors of Buddhism, but also functions as a center for various other Buddhist practices, including Pure Land Buddhism. The Gokuraku-jodo Garden, a meticulously crafted representation of the Western Paradise of Amida Buddha, offers a serene counterpoint to the bustling city surrounding the temple.

Introduction

Shitennoji Temple, founded in 593 by Prince Shotoku, embodies his vision of a compassionate and enlightened society rooted in Buddhist principles. Shotoku, a pivotal figure in introducing Buddhism to Japan, dedicated Shitennoji to the Four Heavenly Kings, Buddhist guardian deities, after attributing his victory in a decisive battle to their divine protection. This act marked the imperial family's official acceptance of Buddhism, significantly influencing Japan's cultural and philosophical trajectory.

Shotoku's legacy is deeply intertwined with Shitennoji, reflecting his broader contributions to Japanese governance and culture. His influence is evident in the Seventeen-Article Constitution, which established Buddhist and Confucian principles as guiding values for the nation. Shitennoji serves as a living testament to these principles, promoting education, welfare, and spiritual growth.

The temple's architectural layout, known as the "Shitennoji style," reflects Asuka period temple design and became a model for subsequent Buddhist temples in Japan. Despite facing numerous destructions throughout history, Shitennoji has been meticulously reconstructed to preserve its original design, demonstrating reverence for Shotoku's vision. The annual "Shotoku Taishi Eshiki" festival on April 22 commemorates Shotoku's death and celebrates his role in establishing Buddhism in Japan. Shitennoji stands as a symbol of Shotoku's enduring influence and his vision of a harmonious society guided by Buddhist teachings.

Prince Shotoku's Vision

Shitennoji Temple's architectural journey is marked by repeated reconstructions, a testament to its resilience against fires, wars, and natural disasters throughout its extensive history. While the temple was originally constructed in 593 AD by Prince Shotoku, the most recent major reconstruction occurred in the 1960s. These reconstructions have been carefully executed to preserve the original Asuka-period architectural style, characterized by a blend of Chinese and Japanese elements. The temple complex follows the Shitennō-ji style, featuring a central five-story pagoda, a main golden hall (Kondo), a lecture hall (Kodo), and corridors that connect these buildings.

Despite the need for rebuilding, significant efforts have been made to maintain the temple's cultural and historical integrity. The Kodo, located at the northern end of the complex, is used for religious rituals and educational events and is connected to other temple buildings by covered walkways. The reconstructions ensure that Shitennoji continues to reflect its ancient design, allowing visitors to experience the spiritual vision that shaped early Japanese Buddhism. The ongoing dedication to preserving Shitennoji's architectural heritage makes it a unique site for understanding the evolution and preservation of temple design in Japan.

Temple's Architectural Reconstructions

Nestled within the Shitennoji Temple complex in Osaka, the Gokuraku-jodo Garden, also known as the Garden of Paradise, offers a serene escape that embodies Buddhist paradise. Built in 1933, the garden's design is inspired by the parable of a path to salvation between two rivers, symbolizing the journey to enlightenment. Located in the northeast corner of the temple complex, adjacent to the Gochiko-in Temple, the garden requires a 300 yen admission fee to enter.

The Gokuraku-jodo Garden is not a Zen garden but a Pure Land Buddhist garden associated with the Washu sect, promising devotees a spot in the Western Paradise of the Amida Buddha. The garden features a blue Hakkakutei, an octagonal pavilion adorned with stained-glass windows, which sits on the east side of Paradise Lake. In the middle of the pond, three stones represent Amida and his attendants.

A notable feature is the Ryumon-baku style waterfall, also known as the Dragon Gate Waterfall, where a stone at the bottom represents a carp swimming upwards, symbolizing the difficulty of achieving enlightenment. The River of Hi flows from this waterfall to the Pond of Ruriko, with boulders and grasses creating a natural stream along the path. Within the garden grounds, a tea house offers matcha green tea with traditional sweets for 400 yen, providing a tranquil setting to appreciate the garden's beauty.

Gokuraku-jodo Garden's Paradise

Shitennoji Temple in Osaka hosts a vibrant flea market on the 21st and 22nd of each month, offering a unique cultural exchange. This market, the largest of its kind in the Kansai region, attracts locals and tourists alike, creating a bustling atmosphere within the grounds of the ancient temple. Visitors can discover a diverse array of items, from Japanese antiques like swords and lacquerware to retro American collectibles, reflecting a blend of cultures and eras. The market embodies the Japanese philosophy of "mottainai," encouraging the reuse and appreciation of goods.

Bargain hunters can explore stalls offering affordable treasures, with some vendors even open to negotiation, especially when visitors try the local Osaka tradition of saying "makete" to lower the price. The Shitennoji Flea Market provides a space for cultural immersion, where visitors can interact with local merchants and fellow shoppers. Beyond the shopping experience, the market allows visitors to experience the historical significance of Shitennoji Temple, founded in 593 AD. The temple's serene atmosphere provides a contrast to the lively market, offering a moment of reflection amidst the cultural exchange. The market's diverse offerings and vibrant atmosphere make it a must-visit destination for those seeking a unique cultural experience in Osaka.

Shitennoji

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