Top Places for Art and Cultural Activities in Osaka
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Suwama Shrine
(27 Votes)
There are multiple accounts of the origin of this shrine. Some say Empress Jingu herself enshrined Ikasuri-no-kami. Others speak of Hideyoshi Toyotomi moving the shrine to its currently location. At any rate, at this point there are five kamis enshrined here - Ikui, Sakui, Tsunagai, Hahiki and Hasuha. People come here to pray for safety for their journeys and their homes. -
Abeseimei Shrine
(3 Votes)
Abe no Seimei. If you're Japanese, there is no way you've not heard of him. Born in 921, he was a legendary onmyoji (a sort of mystic). The shrine is supposed to be the location of his birth, and the well here is where he had his first bath. People used to come pray here for safe childbirths. The shrine's popularity waned in the Edo period, and it was not until 1925 that it was restored. I...Read more -
This otherwise unremarkable looking temple seems to have the pall of an ancient tragedy hanging over it. Tucked away next to the temple building is the grave of Sanada Yukimura. He was the general in charge of defending the city during the Siege of Osaka. That and his death are famous stories. But since all the monuments and plaques are written in Japanese, most foreign tourists have no idea wh...Read more -
Tsunashikiten Shrine
(1 Vote)
You never know when you might need a quick prayer downtown. This unexpected temple lies right next to Hankyu Umeda Station Chayamachi. You have to go through a Torii gate and climb up a short flight of stairs. The deity there is known for the blessings she hands out in academic achievement, healthy marriages, and safe journeys. Ask the people at the shrine or someone nearby what legend is assoc...Read more -
This is probably the most interesting of the temples in Osaka. The idea is for parents to bring their naughty kids to this temple. On the surface it doesn't look all that special. It's only when you read a sign up close saying 'I will rip your tongue out', that things become interesting. Inside are Yama (lord of the dead), assorted demon statues, and other creepy images. Ideally, the kids broug...Read more -
Shomaninaizen-do Temple
(3 Votes)
Emperor Suiko Era had this Buddhist temple built in the 6th century as a healing house for the sick and poor. Medicinal herbs were cultivated. After the Queen Shoman was enshrined here, the temple adopted the name used today. The temple is popular amongst the more romantic Osakans. It's said to aid in matchmaking and support in marriage. The temple building itself is big and red and warm, surro...Read more -
Kitamido
(4 Votes)
This temple has had quite a tumultuous history. Built in the 15th century, it quickly grew in size, attracting the attention of those who saw its military strategic potential. Under Hideyoshi the temple was split into two, each becoming a magnificent building in charge of its own sect. WWII burned them both down. The temple you see here today is their successor. The Midosuji road takes its name...Read more -
This is a small but charming museum focused on fine art. It most deals in temporary and special exhibitions. It has small collection of its own too - paintings, woodblocks, prints, sculpture and ceramics. The museum is located inside the Hotel Monterrey. Keep yourself updated on upcoming exhibitions on the museum website. -
Samuhara Shrine
(2 Votes)
After nearly dying in the Sino-Russian war, Tanaka Tomisaburo found religion in Shinto. Only, he put his own twist on it, building up an old shrine and handing out amulets and talismans. Accused of profiteering, he had to watch the government burn down his shrine. Years later he built it up again and move the shrine to this place. It is a small but very charming building so pop in and have a lo...Read more -
Dainenbutsu-ji Temple
(9 Votes)
This is the main temple of a Buddhist sect known as the Yuzunenbutsushu. It was allegedly first established by the priest Ronnen in the 12th century. On May 1 to May 5 people gather at this temple in large numbers to worship the kami Amidanyorai. The temple building itself is somewhat grad looking, moderately lavishly decorated. It possesses a national treasure or two. -
This is a simple and elegant arched bridge, stretching from the island in the middle of Dojima River to Shimo-fukushima Park. In the daytime its nothing special to look at. Sunset makes for some nice photo opportunities. But it's at night, when bridge lights have come on, that you should hang around for a little longer. The underside of the bridge glows with blue neon light, which has an ethere...Read more -
Nakayamadera
(1129 Votes)
A pilgrimage site, the Nakayamadera temple is number 24 on the Saikoku 33 Kannon Pilgrimage path of Western Japan. It is dedicated to Kannon (Avalokiteshvara: Goddess of Mercy) and was built by Prince Shotoku Taishi. It is said that praying at the temple assures women of an easy childbirth. Anything to do with pregnancy, birth and children is covered in the many sub-temples ...Read more -
Osaka Masjid ( Mosque )
(1 Vote)
Osaka Masjid is a beautiful mosque where you can visit to offer prayers. Located at a very convenient location, the masjid does attract a lot of believers. The mosque itself is very peaceful and there’s a female prayer room on the second floor which is relatively large in size. The interior is very well-decorated and the architecture is brilliant. At the entrance, you can find a guestbook...Read more -
Watanabenotsu is a place of historic and religious importance in Osaka. It is located on the ancient road of worship and gives you a glimpse of old days when worshippers used to land here. It was a popular place is the late Heian period. Today, you will find a small monument with an information board overlooking the O River.
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Mizukakefudoson is a tiny shrine along the road that is popular amongst locals. The statue is covered in moss and is considered to be a protective deity. You will find a number of people coming here or stopping by daily to offer their prayers. One of the interesting places in Osaka to visit, Mizukakefudoson will give you a glimpse of the religious side of the city.
