Banshoji (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Banshoji?
What makes it 67% Kids-Friendly: Kids enjoy the mechanical dolls, smoky dragon, and cheap fortune slips, but the temple is small, has no playground, and requires close supervision, so families stay only 20–30 minutes.
Positives:
- Free Cultural Shows: Doll and dragon performances cost no fee and excite kids.
- Stroller-Friendly Paths: Flat walkways allow easy stroller access across the grounds.
- Quick Stop Near Osu Arcade: Combine temple visit with nearby shops and street food to fill longer visits.
Challenges:
- Limited Play Space: No playground or seating; kids may tire if they can't run.
- Irregular Show Times: Dragon fog show times vary; plan arrival accordingly.
- Minimal English Signage: Some displays lack English translations; use a translation app.
What is Banshoji?
- A 16th-century Buddhist temple in Nagoya’s Ōsu district founded by daimyō Oda Nobuhide in 1504
- A historic site tied to the legacy of Oda Nobunaga and the childhood hostage years of Tokugawa Ieyasu
- An ensemble of classical Buddhist structures anchored by a stone gate, framed by paper lanterns and housing an eleven-faced Kannon Bodhisattva statue
What is so special about Banshoji for with kids?
- Watch free mechanical doll and dragon fog performances.
- Engage kids with fortune slips and fox-shaped ema crafts.
- Stroller-friendly grounds and quick visit fit young families.
- Combine with Osu Shopping Arcade for food and play nearby.
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours
Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: This time lets you catch the doll and dragon shows and explore without tiring the kids.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Banshoji
Karakuri Mechanical Doll Show:
Watch two animatronic dolls reenact historical scenes in the Emadō hall.
Tip: Arrive on the hour to catch the full performance.
White Dragon Light & Fog Show:
See a dragon sculpture breathe fog and colored lights after sunset.
Tip: Check show times at the entrance and stay nearby at dusk.
Pull an Omikuji Fortune Slip:
Let kids draw their luck from a coin-operated machine.
Tip: Bring ¥100 coins and read simple fortunes together.
Write Wishes on Fox Ema Boards:
Buy fox-shaped votive tablets to write family wishes.
Tip: Purchase at the office for ¥300 and hang them on the rack.
Collect a Goshuin Stamp:
Get the temple’s calligraphy seal in your stamp book.
Tip: Have your goshuin book ready; cost is around ¥500.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Banshoji
- Visit on Weekdays: Go early on weekdays to avoid crowds during shows.
- Check Show Schedule: Confirm doll and fog show times at the ticket office before touring.
- Combine with Osu Arcades: Walk to Osu Shopping Arcade after the temple for snacks and games.
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.
When is the best time to visit Banshoji (Nagoya, Japan)?
On the 28th at 6 pm, kids get free mochi blessings. In spring, enjoy lantern-lit cherry blossoms.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Omikuji fortune slips (2) | JPY 200 |
| Fox ema boards (2) | JPY 600 |
| Goshuin stamps (2) | JPY 1,000 |
| Total Estimated | JPY 1,800 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Banshoji
Address: 3-chōme-29-12 Ōsu, Naka Ward, Nagoya, Aichi 460-0011, Japan
Map will load when you scroll here
Scroll down to view the interactive map
Looking for other Things to Do besides Banshoji (Nagoya)?
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 52-262-073510 BEST nearby Activities
Explore Popular Things to Do
How You Can Support Us
If our website helps you, please support us by booking your travel needs through this link: Book Flights, Hotels, Activities on Trip.com - New App User Promo up to 10% OFF. We may earn a small affiliate commission - at no extra cost to you!
It's a simple way to help us keep the site running and improving for everyone. Thanks for your support!
10 BEST nearby Activities