Banshoji (couple trip)
How Couple-Friendly is Banshoji?
Couples can stroll beneath lanterns, join the evening dragon light show, and buy matching omamori, creating a romantic yet brief date stop that pairs well with nearby Osu shopping streets.
Positives:
- No Admission Fee: All main attractions and shows are free unless you buy souvenirs.
- Cultural Experience: Participate in traditional rituals like ema writing and charm buying.
Challenges:
- Limited Seating: Shows have standing-room only; plan to stand for short performances.
- Crowded Evenings: The courtyard can fill up after dusk; arrive early for clear views.
What is so special about Banshoji for couple trip?
- Stroll hand in hand under the historic stone gate and glowing lanterns.
- Share free mechanical doll and evening light shows for a unique date.
- Buy matching omamori and write fox-shaped ema to seal your wishes together.
- Experience authentic temple rituals with minimal costs.
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours
Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for couple trip: Couples can stroll the gate, catch both mechanical doll and dragon shows, and shop for charms at a relaxed pace.
Couple-Friendly Activities in Banshoji
Stroll the Stone Gate & Lantern Path:
Walk beneath the moss-covered stone torii and rows of paper lanterns lining the arcade.
Tip: Visit around sunset to see lanterns light up and take photos with warm backlighting.
Watch the Karakuri Mechanical Doll Show:
View two animatronic figures reenacting historic scenes inside Emadō hall.
Tip: Check the schedule (10:00–18:00) and arrive 5 minutes early for best spots.
Evening White Dragon Light & Fog Show:
See a white dragon sculpture emit mist and colored lights in the courtyard.
Tip: Best after dusk; listen for the bell signaling each performance.
Buy Matching Omamori Good-Luck Charms:
Choose from love or success amulets at the temple office.
Tip: Bring about ¥500 and ask staff for “koi” (love) charms.
Collect a Goshuin Temple Stamp:
Get calligraphy and red seals in your stamp book.
Tip: Keep a blank goshuincho with you and offer around ¥300.
Write Wishes on Fox-Shaped Ema Boards:
Inscribe personal wishes on small wooden plaques.
Tip: Use a fine-tipped pen and tie the ema on the ram’s horn rack near the gate.
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Typical Budget for a Couple (2 Adults)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Omamori charm | JPY 500 |
| Goshuin stamp | JPY 300 |
| Fox-shaped ema board | JPY 300 |
| Total Estimated | JPY 1,100 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
When is the best time to visit Banshoji?
After sunset in summer, lanterns stay lit until 20:00 when the dragon show feels more dramatic. On the 28th of each month around 18:00, line up near the main hall for a free protective mochi offering.
How to Maximize Your Visit to Banshoji
- Time Your Visit: Sync your watch with the doll and dragon show schedules posted at the entrance.
- Exact Change Ready: Carry small bills or coins for charms, stamps, and ema to speed up purchases.
Map of Banshoji
Address: 3-chōme-29-12 Ōsu, Naka Ward, Nagoya, Aichi 460-0011, Japan
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Reviews of Banshoji
Queen PushyCat
I thought it’d be quite interesting to see a temple in the middle of a shopping area. The temple looks super grand. I definitely recommend stepping in to take a look. Collected my goshuin here!
Jerid Beasley
Great shrine, not very foreigner friendly. I paid for 2 goshuin, one hand written(very pretty) and a pink leaflet. Did not receive the leaflet and when I brought it up they didn't understand that I didn't get it. Have to show every goshuin I had, over 50 and my receipt in order to get it without double paying. I think it was a communication error but I felt like they though I was trying to steal o...
Sze Mei NG
It looks very grand and modern theater. It doesn't look like a historic temple. Banshoji Temple was established for Oda's family by Oda Nobuhide (Oda Nobunaga's father) in 1540. It was relocated to Osu when Nagoya Castle was built in 1610. There are 2 Karakuri mechanic dolls exhibited to perform "Kouwakamai" dance (Nobunaga danced before going to the battle of Okehazama) and express the scense No...
Horatio Tan
An interesting temple right in the middle of the Osu Shopping Streets. It's also located in front of Don Quixote entrances.
夏美
I visited the Bansho-ji temple on the last day of my trip. It is a unique temple located inside Osu Shopping arcade, near Don Quijote. I bought an amulet to commemorate my visit, and I went inside to give thanks and pray to the Gods. By the way, the amulet and goshuin booth is open until 6:00pm. If you have spare time, why not visit the temple whilst you are in the shopping arcade premises.
About Banshoji
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+81 52-262-0735See available options
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