Shitenno-ji Temple holds significant historical and cultural importance as the country's first Buddhist and oldest officially administered temple, serving as a center for Buddhist learning and enlightenment.
Yes, visitors can go inside the 5-tier pagoda at Shitenno-ji Temple, which is 39.2m high, and climb to the top, although it is noted to be relatively narrow inside.
The temple features a central hall, a lecture hall, a five-story pagoda, and a beautiful Gokuraku-jodo garden. It also hosts various festivals and ceremonies throughout the year.
Shitenno-ji Temple's layout is unique, with all buildings in the garan (temple precinct) sitting on one line and surrounded by a corridor. It differs from other famous temples made by Prince Shotoku.
Other places of interest within Shitenno-ji Temple include the Rokuji-do, where monks held memorial mass six times a day, and the famous pond, Kame no Ike, which houses dozens of turtles.
Traveler reviews
This place was absolutely 💯 magical❣️ There was soooo much to see. Everytime I thought, ok, I've taken all the pics of this area, something else would grab your eye. The endless stuff on the temple grounds was astounding. There were also multiple buildings that were roped off due repairs etc. Then there was the inner sanctum which required a small tribute to enter. More treasures to see, but no pics inside the structures. They say about 2.5 hrs to observe it all, but I was there 4.5 hrs just taking it all in. I became deeply moved when in the presence of the gigantic monument of Buda, never had this happen my entire existence. MAGICAL❣️
I visited this outstanding temple complex on a rainy morning last year, which gave it a quiet, solemn atmosphere. There was a book fair taking place outside, though unfortunately, many of the stalls were "closed" or covered due to the rain, so the full vibe of the market was a bit lost.
The temple itself is magnificent. The admission price for the main area is very affordable, and it is free if you are using the Osaka Amazing Pass. Inside, the statues are truly impressive in their scale and detail.
A special mention must go to the ponds, which are surprisingly full of turtles, and the Gokuraku-jodo Garden, which is exceptionally well-maintained and peaceful. Even in the rain, it’s a beautiful place to walk through and appreciate traditional Japanese landscaping.
Visited at the end of November. A beautiful temple to visit in Osaka, it's really big with lots to see. I came early in the morning when there weren't many people around, which made it really pleasant to walk around. It's a great place to find some peace and quiet. There was an entrance fee for the temple, but I decided to skip the visit. I don't know if it's worth it, but in any case, there's enough to see from the outside to appreciate the place. There was also a cute flea market in front of the stone torii gate. It was a Sunday.
I've been to this place 3 times now. The first 2 times they did not have an entrance fee. Today they did but it was only ¥500 so it wasn't too bad I guess.
The previous times I came here we're many years ago, so I forgot just how beautiful it was. It really is spectacular.
It's a little out of the way, if you're walking from Namba or ebischo or anywhere in chuo ku it's really far away. It's odd because tennoji is so big. It covers an area all the way from tennoji zoo which is practically tsutenkaku all the way to beyond shitennoji so while it's all tennoji, tennoji is a huge place. It's a long walk from the station too.
It's about 20 minutes walk from the park and 25 minutes walk from the station.
The building is old and has a lot of history for all you history buffs. It was quite important in past events. If you like finding out all the facts of an ancient place then this is for you.
If not it's still a spectacular place to visit.
My favorite thing about this place is the turtles 🐢 in the most.
2025 visit
Entrance fee for adults: ¥500
Kids:200
Facilities: both men's and women's toilets
Places to sit: few and far between
Visiting Shitennō‑ji during a light drizzle was incredibly calming and refreshing. The cool air and gentle rain gave the entire temple a peaceful, almost meditative mood. The stone paths, wooden halls, and garden areas looked beautiful with the soft sheen of rain, making the whole place feel quiet and chill.
Even with the drizzle, walking around the grounds was soothing — the sound of raindrops, the cool breeze, and the tranquil atmosphere made it easy to slow down and enjoy the moment. It’s one of those places where you can just breathe, wander, and feel a sense of calm settle in.
Shitennō‑ji is already a serene temple, but visiting it in cool, drizzly weather made it even more special. A perfect spot for anyone looking for a peaceful break in Osaka.
