Katsuo-ji (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Katsuo-ji?
What makes it 80% Kids-Friendly: Children can hunt Daruma, buy tiny dolls, and use a kids’ toilet and play space; still, steep paths and stone stairs require hand-holding and may tire under-12 legs quickly.
![[4K] Travel Diary to "Katsuoji Temple" in Osaka | Japan📗BGM ver.](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/TT58pv7lFnE/hqdefault.jpg)
Positives:
- Family-friendly restrooms: Accessible toilet near entrance includes diaper-changing table, kids’ toilet, and hot water for bottles.
- Free mobility carts: Three WHILL electric carts are available at reception to help tired legs on slopes.
Challenges:
- Uneven terrain: Many stone steps and steep paths make strollers difficult; use a carrier for younger kids.
- Limited shade in summer: Bring hats and water; shady spots are sparse on upper trails.
What is Katsuo-ji?
- An 8th-century Buddhist temple nestled in the wooded hills north of Osaka
- A sanctuary renowned for its thousands of red Daruma dolls embodying the concept of personal victory
- A complex of gardens and maple groves celebrated for their vibrant autumn foliage
What is so special about Katsuo-ji for with kids?
- Engaging Daruma scavenger hunt keeps kids active and curious.
- Hands-on Daruma painting lets children make a personal souvenir.
- Safe pond area offers koi feeding and stone-skipping fun.
- Seasonal foliage adds colorful backdrops to family photos.
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Gives time for scavenger hunt, Daruma painting, pond play, and breaks without rushing.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Katsuo-ji
Daruma Scavenger Hunt:
Kids follow a temple map to find hidden Daruma dolls across the grounds.
Tip: Pick up a map at the office and reward each find with a sticker.
Paint Your Own Daruma:
Buy small Daruma dolls (¥300–¥500) and let kids paint in one eye for a wish.
Tip: Bring wipes and a small bag to carry painted Daruma home.
Pond & Stone Bridge Exploration:
Watch koi fish and skip stones around the safe, open pond area.
Tip: Bring a few coins to feed the koi and a small stone for skipping.
Interactive Audio Guide for Kids:
Scan QR codes to hear fun stories about Daruma, incense, and pagodas.
Tip: Use a shared earbud splitter so both kids can listen.
When is the best time to visit Katsuo-ji (Osaka, Japan)?
Visit in autumn to see maple leaves blaze red over the hillside paths.
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Reviews of Katsuo-ji (Osaka)
Jitsupha Seattipanich
Really worth the visit! There is a bus that goes directly from the station to the temple. It is very convenient. Just make sure to go early. A lot of people line up for the bus, and if you miss the last one, you might have to take a taxi, which is expensive. I recommend visiting in the morning. It is less crowded and you can enjoy the temple more.
Tiara Suryapranata
This a very interesting and peaceful temple. Located in remote area, there were not excessive number of tourists coming here. To get in the temple area, we have to buy tickets. We'll also get a blank postcard and we can find 6 stamp posts along the temple path. When all the stamps completed, they create a daruma dolls picture. The overall temple ambience is peaceful and serene.
D K
A very serene surrounding! This temple is located pretty far but once you get there, it’s all worth the journey. We were there during a low season and on a weekday. So there was no queue, we got spots on the bus and the space in the temple was huge enough for everyone
Ching ching Chang
Taking my time to review this place, hopefully this is helpful for you to decide if you should spent your time here. Myself love this place a lot, and would recommend who has no tight schedule to come to chill and explore. I came with my 5 years old with train and then bus. The journey took me 1.5 hrs, and I bought ticket online so no queue to enter the temple. This place is chilling and very rela...
McKinley Berg
This was a very beautiful temple and it was fun to see all the daruma everywhere. You can buy some to add or take home or both. You have to hike up a little in the temple before, but it’s worth it to see the beautiful views. They accept both cash and card When you get off at the train station, you can take a direct bus to the temple. It is 800 yen both ways and they do jam pack you into the bus. I...
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| 2 adult admissions | JPY 800 |
| 1 preschool admission (ages 3–5) | JPY 100 |
| 1 child admission (ages 6–12) | JPY 300 |
| 2 painted Daruma souvenirs | JPY 1,000 |
| Snacks & drinks | JPY 300 |
| Total Estimated | JPY 2,500 |
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
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Katsuo-ji
- Arrive early: Visit right at opening (8:00) to avoid crowds and get clear Daruma map for kids.
- Pack light snacks: Bring easy-to-carry snacks so kids stay fueled without long breaks.
Map of Katsuo-ji
Address: 2914-1 Aomatani, Minoh, Osaka 562-8508, Japan
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About Katsuo-ji
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 72-721-7010Explore Popular Things to Do
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