Hozen-ji Temple (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Hozen-ji Temple?
What makes it 66% Kids-Friendly: Children often like pouring water on the moss statue, and the visit is brief and low cost, but the alley is narrow, offers no play space, and toilets lack child amenities.
Positives:
- Free entry: No admission fee lets you explore at your own pace.
- Hands-on ritual: Kids love pouring water on the moss-covered statue.
Challenges:
- Narrow alley: Hozenji Yokocho is tight and can feel crowded.
- Uneven stones: Cobblestones can be slippery; watch small kids closely.
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 kids?
- Interact with a moss-covered Buddha by pouring water together.
- Stroll the lantern-lit, cobblestone Hozenji Yokocho alley.
- Treat kids to kakigōri shaved ice for a cool snack.
- Enjoy family-friendly okonomiyaki at a nearby restaurant.
- Free entry makes it low-cost and easy to fit into your day.
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours
Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Kids can enjoy the water ritual, alley walk, and snacks without rushing.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Hozen-ji Temple
Mizukake Fudo water-splash ritual:
Pour water over the moss-covered Fudō Myōō statue with a wooden ladle.
Tip: Teach kids to scoop and pour slowly to avoid splashing each other.
Explore Hozenji Yokocho alley:
Walk the narrow stone alley lined with lanterns and traditional signs.
Tip: Hold hands in tight spots and let kids spot unique shop signs.
Try kakigōri shaved ice:
Cool off with flavored shaved ice from a stall near the temple entrance.
Tip: Choose mild fruit flavors for kids; costs around ¥300–¥500.
Enjoy okonomiyaki dinner:
Eat savory pancakes at a nearby family-friendly restaurant.
Tip: Order one to share first so you can adjust portion sizes.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Hozen-ji Temple
- Visit before lunch: Arrive by 10 AM to avoid crowds and lines.
- Combine with Dotonbori: Finish here then stroll to Dotonbori for dinner and more sights.
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, grab a kakigōri stall treat to cool down; in winter, visit at dusk to see lanterns glow over the moss statue.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Temple entry | JPY 0 |
| Kakigōri snack | JPY 500 |
| Ema wish plaque | JPY 500 |
| Okonomiyaki dinner (4 people) | JPY 6,400 |
| Total Estimated | JPY 7,400 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Map of Hozen-ji Temple
Address: 1-chōme-2-16 Namba, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 542-0076, Japan
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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
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