Hozen-ji Temple (with baby)
How Baby-Friendly is Hozen-ji Temple?
What makes it 43% Baby-Friendly: A baby must be carried because uneven cobbles frustrate strollers, and there is no nursing room or diaper table on site, so parents face inconvenient care stops nearby.
Positives:
- Free entry: Hozen-ji Temple has no admission fee, making it easy to visit on a budget.
- Hands-on ritual: The water-splash ritual is interactive and fun for both adults and babies.
Challenges:
- Stroller access: The narrow stone alley has uneven surfaces and is not stroller-friendly.
- No baby facilities: The temple lacks diaper-changing or nursing rooms on-site.
What is Hozen-ji Temple?
- A compact 17th-century Buddhist temple tucked into a narrow alley off Dotonbori in Osaka’s Namba district
- Dedicated to the deity Fudo Myoo and renowned for its moss-covered Mizukake Fudo statue formed by centuries of water-sprinkling practice
- Nestled within the lantern-lit lanes of Hozenji Yokocho, the temple preserves the timeless charm of traditional Japanese alleyways amid a bustling urban landscape
What is so special about Hozen-ji Temple for with baby?
- Interactive water-splash ritual with a moss-covered Fudo statue
- Narrow lantern-lit alley offers a quiet stroll for families
- Nearby kakigōri stall provides a cool treat on hot days
- Free entry and low-cost rituals fit a family budget
- Use a baby carrier for easier access and comfort
Note: Hozen-ji Temple is 43% Baby-Friendly. You may want to consider other Baby-Friendly Things to Do in Osaka for a more suitable experience.
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours
Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for with baby: Enough time for the water ritual, alley stroll, and a snack without rushing with a baby
Baby-Friendly Activities in Hozen-ji Temple
Mizukake Fudo Water-Splash Ritual:
Use a wooden ladle to pour water over the moss-covered Fudō Myōō statue.
Tip: Let your baby touch the ladle for a hands-on experience under your supervision.
Stroll along Hozenji Yokocho Alley:
Walk the narrow, lantern-lit stone alley beside the temple.
Tip: Go early to avoid crowds and carry your baby in a front carrier.
Kakigōri Shaved Ice Snack:
Try flavored shaved ice at a stall near the alley entrance.
Tip: Choose mild fruit syrups like strawberry for your baby to taste.
Temple Goshuin Red Seal Stamp:
Collect the temple’s special stamp in your goshuin book.
Tip: Bring a goshuincho stamp book and ¥300 in cash.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Hozen-ji Temple
- Use a baby carrier: A front or back carrier navigates the alley more easily than a stroller.
- Visit early: Arrive before noon to avoid peak crowds and take photos in soft light.
Reviews of Hozen-ji Temple
Nick GC Tan
Very traditional, open, and interesting! Please make sure that you put your offering before you light up the incense and candle. And also the water by the shrine used to be put onto them not for the hands.
Tan Xiang Yun
Came across this hidden temple at dotonbori and have to say that it did not disappoint! The temple happened to have cats there that are well taken care by the caretakers. On top of that, the caretakers are so friendly!! 10/10 experience
Xinning Gu (Fay)
I didn’t plan to visit, just happened to walk by after a meal nearby, and I’m so glad I did! There were three adorable cats around, awwww! The shrine itself is super cool. The god statue is covered in grass and moss, he's called "不动明王", and you can pray by pouring water over him. It’s such a peaceful and special spot tucked away inside the busy commercial streets, full of rich Japanese culture. I...
Cody P
A serene shrine tucked away in Dontonbori, though you’d never think it was with how peaceful this place is. It’s not a very big shrine, but it’s certainly gorgeous. In the center of the shrine is a moss-covered statue that guests can splash water on - doing so is said to give good luck.
Zara
I think this was my favourite shrine in Osaka, it's so quiet and small, hidden away in the busy streets of dotonburi. Such a wonderful little calm spot to take a break. The moss covered statues are beyond stunning and the energy of this one is indescribable. Plus they have the most gorgeous Goshuin here 💖
When is the best time to visit Hozen-ji Temple (Osaka, Japan)?
In summer, cool off with kakigōri after the water ritual. In winter, visit around sunset to see lanterns glow early.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 3 (2 Adults + 1 Baby)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Ema love-wish plaque | JPY 500 |
| Kakigōri shaved ice | JPY 400 |
| Okonomiyaki dinner for 2 adults | JPY 3,600 |
| Goshuin red seal stamp | JPY 300 |
| Total Estimated | JPY 4,800 |
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 Hozen-ji Temple
Address: 1-chōme-2-16 Namba, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 542-0076, Japan
Map will load when you scroll here
Scroll down to view the interactive map
Looking for other Things to Do besides Hozen-ji Temple (Osaka)?
About Hozen-ji Temple
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 6-6211-415210 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