[2025 Osaka Attraction] Travel Guide for Hozenji (Updated Feb)

Day 1: Classic Attractions and Cultural Exploration Morning: • Osaka Castle Park and Osaka Castle: Stroll through the historic castle and learn about the culture and architectural features of the Sengoku period. • Osaka Castle Park: Enjoy the flowers, take photos, and feel the serene natural atmosphere. Afternoon: • Shinsaibashi and Dotonbori: Shop along the streets and taste local snacks such as takoyaki, okonomiyaki, and kushikatsu. • Glico Running Man Sign: Check in at this iconic landmark and experience the bustling urban vibe of Osaka. Evening: • Hozenji Yokocho: Explore traditional alleys, savor izakaya and ramen shops, and experience Japanese nightlife. Day 2: Entertainment and Shopping Tour Morning: • Universal Studios Japan (USJ): Immerse yourself in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Jurassic Park, and Minion Park, and enjoy thrilling rides. Afternoon: • Continue exploring Universal Studios Japan, experiencing exciting parades and unique foods. Evening: • Umeda Sky Building Floating Garden Observatory: Admire the charming night view of Osaka and feel the romantic atmosphere. Day 3: Surrounding Exploration and Departure Preparation Morning: • Kuromon Market: Enjoy the food paradise known as the "Kitchen of Osaka," tasting sushi, sashimi, and wagyu beef. • Tennoji and Tsutenkaku: Visit the iconic tower and surrounding shopping streets, experiencing the retro Showa era vibe. Afternoon: • Namba Parks Shopping Center: Shop for Japanese souvenirs and trendy fashion items. • Nipponbashi Den Den Town and Otaku Culture District: A paradise for anime fans, buy models and game merchandise. Evening: • Return to the hotel to pack, take the airport express or a taxi to the airport, and have a safe trip home. Travel Tips: 1. Transportation: Use the ICOCA card for convenient subway and JR line travel. 2. Accommodation Recommendation: Staying in Namba or Shinsaibashi is convenient for shopping and food lovers. 3. Language: Osaka people are friendly and basic English communication is possible; having a translation app is recommended. 4. Tax-Free Shopping: Enjoy a 10% tax-free discount with your passport, especially at drugstores and electronics stores. 5. Internet Access: Rent a Wi-Fi device or SIM card to stay connected, making it easy to look up information and navigate. This itinerary combines culture, entertainment, and food, allowing you to fully experience the charm of Osaka!

#celebratewithtrip Hozenji Temple is a small temple in the warren of streets that lie between the bright neon signs of Dotonbori and the shopping malls of Namba. Stepping through the temple gate is very much like stepping out of the modern world and into the past. Hozenji Temple is very accessible as it is about 5 minute walk from Namba Subway Station and the Nippombashi Subway Station.

In the middle of all the hustle and bustle of Dotonbori is a wonderful temple that provides a bit of respite and peace. It would be easy to miss this tiny temple, but that would be a loss. Hidden in a maze of alley ways, and surrounded by shops and restaurants, this beautiful shrine has a sacred vibe. The temple is small and opens right into the alley, with it's famous moss covered statues. Visitors are collecting water from the fountain and pouring it over the statues, which is why the moss flourishes. Mizu-kake Fudo, an image of the Buddhist deity Fudo, the kami of fury is covered in moss after years of the water that is splashed on with prayers. It is interesting to see the shrine and temple next to each other almost utilizing the same space. #givethanks #givethanks

📍Address - 1 Chome-1-16 Namba, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 542-0076, Japan. 🏖Ambiance/Facilities - Old-school neighborhood restaurant with a cozy vibe. 💡Highlights - Very well-made unagi dishes for an affordable price. 💵Avg. Price per Person - 30 USD ⭐️Rating - 4/5 Tucked away in a quiet alley near Hozenji Temple, Hozenji Yamakazu is easily one of the best unagi restaurants I have visited in Japan🇯🇵😋. This intimate, two-story establishment exudes the warmth of a traditional Japanese home, making the dining experience feel both personal and nostalgic. What sets Hozenji Yamakazu apart is its Osaka-style unagi preparation—a rare find even in Japan. Unlike the Kanto method, where the eel is grilled, then steamed before being grilled again, here the eel is first steamed to ensure tenderness, then glazed with a rich, homemade tare sauce, and finally lightly charred over open charcoal. The sauce is something special—deeply flavorful yet not overpowering, allowing the natural richness of the eel to shine. The smoky aroma from the charcoal imparts an extra dimension that elevates every bite. Pairing it with a bowl of perfectly steamed rice completes the experience, creating a dish that is both comforting and indulgent. Beyond the food, the atmosphere at Hozenji Yamakazu adds to its charm. The small, home-like setting makes it feel like a well-kept secret, a place where every detail—from the quality of ingredients to the craftsmanship in the preparation—reflects a deep respect for tradition. If you're an unagi lover or simply looking for an exceptional meal in Osaka. #osakafoodie #localfood #osaka #osakanamba #unagilover

🌈Attraction Highlights: Shinsaibashi: One of the busiest commercial districts in Osaka Dotonbori: Glico sign, various snacks Hozenji Yokocho: Full of Japanese style, old eel rice shop Namba Yasaka Shrine: Popular lion head stage Tsutenkaku: Detective Conan filming location, overlooking the whole of Osaka. 🕐️Recommended Activities: ♥1. Shopping: Shinsaibashi is one of the largest shopping districts in Osaka, with many high-end and trendy brand stores. You can buy all kinds of clothes, shoes, cosmetics, handbags, and other goods here. ♥2. Food: There are many restaurants near Shinsaibashi, including Japanese, Western, and Chinese cuisine. You can try local specialties such as okonomiyaki, takoyaki, and ramen. ♥3. Street Performers: You can often see street performers on the pedestrian street in Shinsaibashi, such as magic, acrobatics, and music. These performances are very interesting and can give you a different experience. ♥4. Night View: At night, the lights in Shinsaibashi are very beautiful. You can take a walk by the river and enjoy the night view. You can also take a water bus to tour the canal and feel the romantic atmosphere. 🏨Accommodation: We recommend Akatsuki House. They have different types of rooms. You can book an apartment at Kishinosato Station. The smart lock is very convenient. The room is very spacious and has a kitchen and washing machine. It is very cost-effective. 💗Other Tips: ☀When shopping, pay attention to price tags and return policies. When tasting food, pay attention to hygiene and the freshness of ingredients. When watching street performers, pay attention to taking photos and safety.

Japan has always been one of my bucket list destinations and last year I finally got the chance to visit! 📍 Hozen-ji temple is located in Minami district of Osaka, Japan. The temple is hidden away down a small street in the lively downtown area Minami in Osaka. The statue of Nishimuki Fudo Myo, a Buddhist deity, is covered with moss. It is believed that when you sprinkle water over the statue, he will grant your wishes! The bright green moss adds to the charm and history of the temple, as well as the cats here which are treasured for their soothing presence. #osakatrip #osaka #japan #japantrip #mytravelhacks #historicallandmarks #localguides #familytrip

Hozenji Yokocho, one of the tourist attractions in Namba, Osaka, is located near the bustling Dotonbori. It is famous for the temple Hozenji, known for its 'Mizukake Fudo Myo-o' statue, which exudes a strong Japanese atmosphere. The Mizukake Fudo Myo-o, surrounded by lush green moss, is very special. It is said that in the past, women who came to Hozenji to pray would pour water on the statue to make their wishes come true. This area is home to many delectable Osaka foods, and it becomes especially lively during lunch and dinner times. There are many traditional Japanese restaurants, bars, okonomiyaki (Japanese savory pancakes) shops, kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers) shops, and sweet shops perfect for a short break. Business hours vary by store. Closed days vary by store. Access: A 5-minute walk from Namba Station on the Osaka Metro Midosuji Line, Sennichimae Line, Kintetsu, and Nankai lines. You can take the Osaka Metro Midosuji Line, Sennichimae Line, Kintetsu, or Nankai to 'Namba Station (なんば駅)' and then walk for about 5 minutes. Alternatively, you can walk southeast for about 5 minutes from the famous Glico signboard at Ebisu Bridge or Dotonbori. After sightseeing in Dotonbori, you can head to Hozenji Yokocho, making it a convenient route to visit both spots.

#familytrips2024 Our family trip to Hozenji Temple in Osaka was a delightful blend of tradition and charm. We wandered through the quaint alleyways of Hozenji Yokocho, discovering the moss-covered Hozenji Temple hidden within. The kids enjoyed splashing water on the temple's statue for good luck, and we all appreciated the serene atmosphere amidst the bustling city. For our next family trip, I suggest Kyoto. It's nearby and brimming with historical and cultural treasures. We can explore magnificent temples, participate in traditional tea ceremonies, and enjoy scenic walks through lush gardens. Kyoto's rich heritage and family-friendly attractions make it an ideal destination for our next adventure.

Hozenji Temple is located in the Chuo Ward of Osaka City. It is a small and serene Buddhist temple that attracts countless visitors with its unique stone-paved paths and an atmosphere filled with historical charm. The most famous part of Hozenji Temple is the 'Mizukake Fudo Myoo' statue, covered with thick moss, which symbolizes people's wishes and prayers for blessings. Hozenji Temple is an excellent place to find tranquility in the bustling city. Its quaint charm and unique moss-covered statues make it a special cultural landmark in the heart of Osaka. Whether seeking peace or a moment of serenity for the soul, Hozenji Temple offers visitors an unforgettable experience. When in Osaka, take some time to visit this rustic temple and feel the unique historical and cultural atmosphere it offers.

Free Attractions Not to Miss - Osaka and Tokyo Tour Edition (Osaka Minami Ward) Osaka has 24 administrative districts, with the southern area led by Dotonbori being the heart of Osaka. The previous article introduced the famous attractions in Osaka's Kita Ward that should not be missed, and this article continues with the famous attractions in the southern area to experience the unique charm of Osaka. 🌟1. Dotonbori Dotonbori is a 🏞canal about 2.5 kilometers long, known for its adjacent theaters, commercial and entertainment venues. Dotonbori is the symbol of the southern area of Osaka and is also the origin of Osaka's "eat till you drop" food culture. The north bank of the canal used to be a place where geishas entertained guests, and now it is home to neighboring bars and restaurants; the south bank is the central area of Dotonbori, which used to be the gathering area for Osaka theaters. Next, I will share with you the delicious food I had with King Kong in Dotonbori. 📍Detailed address: Dotonbori, Chuo Ward, Osaka City 🚉Transportation: Subway Midosuji Line to Namba Station, exit from Exit 14 💰Cost: Free 🌟2. Hozenji Yokocho This is a stone-paved alley close to Dotonbori Avenue. When you come to Dotonbori for food, you might want to come here to feel the nostalgic 🌸atmosphere, making you feel as if you've stepped back hundreds of years. On both sides of the alley are various snacks and coffee shops, and deep in the alley is 🏯Hozenji Temple, which enshrines the 'Motionless Water Deity'. 📍Detailed address: 1 Chome Namba, Chuo Ward, Osaka City 🚉Transportation: Subway to Namba Station 💰Cost: Free 🌟3. Sumiyoshi Taisha It is the most famous shrine in Osaka and has been designated as a national treasure. The shrine enshrines three deities, who respectively bless the nation's prosperity, safe navigation, and the promotion of traditional poetry. 📍Detailed address: 2-9-89 Sumiyoshi, Sumiyoshi Ward, Osaka City 🚉Transportation: Monorail to Sumiyoshi Torii Mae Station 💰Cost: Free This article talks about the free attractions in Osaka, and the next one will continue to introduce other 🎐attractions in the southern area of Osaka, such as the Ukiyo-e Museum above, Shitennoji 🏯, and other famous spots.

#2024wish I had the pleasure of visiting Hozenji, a small temple nestled in the heart of the bustling city, and I was instantly captivated by its tranquil ambiance and mesmerizing beauty. As I approached the temple gate, I couldn't help but notice its unassuming facade, which belied the captivating charm that awaited within. The moment I set foot on the temple grounds, I was greeted by a sense of calmness that seemed to permeate the air. The first thing that caught my eye was the enchanting deity statue covered entirely in a vibrant carpet of moss. It was truly a sight to behold, as if nature itself had cradled the statue with its gentle touch. The moss-covered deity served as a captivating centerpiece, exuding a unique aura of tranquility and reverence. I wish to go back to osaka in 2024