Shitenno-ji Temple

Shitenno-ji temple is the oldest Buddhist temple in Japan, founded in the year 593 by Prince Shotoku as a symbol of the introduction of Buddhism into the country. Although the current structure is a 1963 reconstruction after several fires over the centuries, the grounds still convey an atmosphere of serenity and historical weight hard to find in other Japanese temples. The complex includes a five-storey pagoda, the Main Hall (Kondo), the Lecture Hall (Kodo), several ceremonial gates and the beautiful Gokuraku-jodo garden, considered one of the most beautiful in Osaka. Admission to the outer grounds is free; access to the inner precinct costs 500 yen for adults, and the garden is visited for an additional 300 yen. The temple opens from 8:30 to 16:30 (until 16:00 from October to March). To get there, take the subway to Shitennoji-mae Yuhigaoka station (Tanimachi line). On the 21st of each month an antiques market is held in the grounds, worth a visit if it coincides with your trip.