Shitennoji Temple

Shitennoji Temple

Introduction

Shitennoji Temple, built in 593 AD by Prince Shotoku, is Japan’s oldest surviving government-established temple. Centered around the main complex where the middle gate, five-story pagoda, Main Hall (Kondo), and Lecture Hall (Kodo) stand in a straight line, the area also features other historic structures such as the Stone Stage, Rokusho Hall, Prince Shotoku Hall, and the temple’s monastic quarters. Long renowned for its significance, this was once an important hub for exchanges between Japan, mainland China, and the Korean Peninsula, and even today, it continues to host performances of Shitennoji Temple dance and music, traditions brought from the Asian continent in ancient times. During the medieval period, the sunset viewed from the temple’s west gate was considered breathtakingly beautiful, drawing many devotees seeking the Pure Land paradise. This led to the area being called Sunset Hill, and it remains one of Osaka’s spots where visitors can experience the city’s past nature and culture.

 Osaka, Japan