“Where is the strongest matchmaking spot in Osaka?” “What kind of history and sights does Aizendo Shomanin have?”
If you are planning a trip to Osaka or a tour of spiritual “power spots,” you might be asking yourself these questions.
To give you the answer right away: Aizendo Shomanin (often affectionately called “Aizen-san”), located in Tennoji Ward, Osaka, is a powerful spot for matchmaking and marital harmony. It is also known as a site connected to Prince Shotoku and is home to historical treasures, including a Tahoto Pagoda designated as an Important Cultural Property.
In this article, we will introduce everything you need to know before visiting Aizendo Shomanin, from its features and benefits to must-see spots on the grounds and access information.
Whether you are planning a visit or simply interested in Osaka’s historic temples, please read on to fully appreciate the charm of Aizen-san.
- What is Aizendo Shomanin (Aizen-san) in Tennoji, Osaka?
- A Power Spot for Matchmaking! Benefits and Features
- Exploring the Grounds! Must-See Spots
- The Charm of the Summer Tradition “Aizen Matsuri”
- Goshuin and Omamori (Amulets) Information
- Access and Basic Information
- Nearby Sightseeing Spots to Visit
- A Message from the Guide
What is Aizendo Shomanin (Aizen-san) in Tennoji, Osaka?
Located in the Tennoji/Yuhigaoka area of Osaka, Aizendo Shomanin is beloved by locals who call it “Aizen-san.” Let’s start by looking at its distinguished history.
A Historic Temple Established by Prince Shotoku
Aizendo Shomanin boasts a long history, established by Prince Shotoku in the first year of Empress Suiko’s reign (593 AD). It began as “Seyaku-in” (a medicinal institution), built to save people from illness and suffering when Prince Shotoku founded the nearby Shitennoji Temple.
Later, because the Prince lectured on the “Srimala Sutra” (Shoman-gyo) at this location, it came to be called “Shomanin.” Today, it is widely known as “Aizendo” because Aizen Myoo (Raga Raja) is enshrined in the Golden Hall.
The First Stop of the Saigoku Aizen Seventeen Sacred Places
Aizendo Shomanin is also famous as the first temple of the Saigoku Aizen Seventeen Sacred Places. This is a pilgrimage route visiting 17 spiritual sites in the Kinki region that enshrine Aizen Myoo. As the starting point, many pilgrims visit here to pray for good matches and family harmony.
A Power Spot for Matchmaking! Benefits and Features
The reason Aizendo Shomanin is called “Osaka’s strongest matchmaking spot” lies in the reputed power of its blessings.
Benefits of the Secret Buddha “Aizen Myoo” for Love and Marriage
The main hall (Golden Hall) enshrines the principal image, Aizen Myoo. Although Aizen Myoo has a bright red body and a furious expression, he is a Buddha of deep compassion who transforms people’s worldly desires and lust into the energy of enlightenment.
He is said to bring strong blessings for “matchmaking” (finding a partner) and “marital harmony.” Many people visit to pray for unrequited love to be returned or for better luck in marriage. Usually kept as a “secret Buddha” behind closed doors, the statue is unveiled for public viewing during the New Year and the summer “Aizen Festival.”
“Aizen-no-Reisui”: Water Said to Grant Love
Near the statue of the Jibo Kannon (Compassionate Mother Avalokitesvara) on the grounds, there is a well containing “Aizen-no-Reisui” (Spiritual Water of Love Dye). This water is famous as “water that fulfills love when drunk.” It is said to bring blessings for romantic success, marital harmony, safe childbirth, and even success in life and business.
Historically, dyers believed that using this water would result in beautiful colors, leading to the belief in its power for business prosperity. When you visit, be sure to partake of this spiritual water to boost your luck.
Exploring the Grounds! Must-See Spots
Beyond the spiritual benefits, the temple grounds are dotted with historically significant buildings and unique sights.
[Important Cultural Property] The Tahoto Pagoda: Osaka City’s Oldest Wooden Structure
The Tahoto Pagoda standing behind the Golden Hall is the symbol of Aizendo Shomanin. Although the original structure from the Empress Suiko era was burned down during Oda Nobunaga’s siege of Osaka Honganji, the current tower was rebuilt by Toyotomi Hideyoshi in 1597.
This pagoda is designated as a National Important Cultural Property and is the oldest existing wooden structure in Osaka City. Inside the tower, the “Dainichi Daisho Kongo” statue, commissioned by Hideyoshi for victory in battle, and colorful murals are housed. You can see these vivid treasures on special viewing days.
The Giant “Aizen Katsura” Tree and its Romantic Legend
On the north side of the grounds stands a giant Katsura tree said to be several hundred years old. A trumpet vine (Nozen-kazura) winds tightly around this tree. Because the Katsura and the vine seem to be embracing each other affectionately, it is called the “Aizen Katsura.”
This spot served as the model for the Showa era hit movie and novel Aizen Katsura. A romantic legend says that couples who vow their love before this tree will be united forever. It is a highly recommended spot for couples and spouses.
Health Prayer! Tap Your Back on the “Stone for Curing Back Pain”
A hidden gem on the grounds is the “Stone for Curing Back Pain.” shaped somewhat like a chair backrest. It is believed that sitting on the stone and pressing the pressure points of your back against the protrusion will cure back pain. It is said to be effective to gently tap the stone while praying, so if you suffer from back issues, please give it a try.
Philosophy Chair, Enmei Jizo, and Other Highlights
There are various other sights to see, such as the “Philosophy Chair” where you can sit and meditate quietly, the “Enmei Jizo” for health and longevity, and the “Gyoran Kannon” (Kannon with a Fish Basket) for the repose of marine life and safety at sea. We recommend taking your time to stroll around the grounds.
The Charm of the Summer Tradition “Aizen Matsuri”
You cannot talk about Aizendo Shomanin without mentioning the “Aizen Matsuri” held every summer.
One of Osaka’s Three Great Summer Festivals
The Aizen Matsuri is one of “Osaka’s Three Great Summer Festivals,” along with the Tenjin Matsuri and Sumiyoshi Matsuri. Held annually from June 30th to July 2nd, it is said that “Summer festivals in Osaka begin with Aizen-san and end with Sumiyoshi-san,” marking the arrival of summer in the city.
During the festival, the secret Buddha Aizen Myoo and the Dainichi Daisho Kongo in the Tahoto Pagoda are unveiled. The “Nagoshi no Harae” (Summer Purification) ceremony is also performed to ward off misfortune, attracting many visitors.
The Colorful “Hoekago” Parade
The highlight of the Aizen Matsuri is the Hoekago Parade. “Aizen Musume” (Aizen Girls), selected from the public and dressed in yukata, ride in palanquins (kago) decorated with red and white cloth. They parade through the streets to the chant of “Aizen-san ja, ho-e-kago!”
Although the scale was reduced for a time, in recent years, events like the parade from Tennoji Park “Tenshiba” to Aizendo have been revived, bringing vibrancy back to the festival. The smiles of the energetic Aizen Girls are sure to energize all who watch.
Goshuin and Omamori (Amulets) Information
As a memento of your visit, be sure to receive a Goshuin (temple stamp) or an Omamori (amulet).
Popular Matchmaking Amulets and Ema
At Aizen-san, known for matchmaking, love amulets are naturally popular. In particular, the matching amulet sets for men and women, and the heart-shaped Ema (votive tablets), are favorites among those wishing for good relationships. They make great souvenirs for yourself or a loved one.
Types of Goshuin and Reception
You can receive Goshuin at the reception office on the grounds. In addition to the representative “Aizen Myoo” stamp, there are stamps for the Saigoku Aizen Seventeen Sacred Places and the Prince Shotoku Sacred Sites.
Please note that in recent years, Goshuin may be provided as loose leaf (pre-written paper), and fees may have been revised, so please check the local signage. Original Goshuin books are also available.
Access and Basic Information
Access to Aizendo Shomanin from within Osaka City is very convenient.
Access by Train (Nearest Station: Shitennoji-mae Yuhigaoka)
The most convenient way to visit is by subway.
- Osaka Metro Tanimachi Line “Shitennoji-mae Yuhigaoka Station”: About a 2-3 minute walk from Exit 5.
After exiting, walk slightly south and you will see a sign. It is also accessible from JR Tennoji Station (about a 15-minute walk), but since there are slopes, using the subway is recommended.
Opening Hours, Fees, and Parking
- Visiting Hours: 9:00 – 16:30
- Admission Fee: Free entry to the grounds (Fees may apply for special viewings/inner halls).
- Parking: There are a few parking spaces on the grounds, but they may be unavailable during events. It is recommended to use nearby coin-operated parking or public transportation.
Nearby Sightseeing Spots to Visit
The Yuhigaoka area, where Aizendo Shomanin is located, is a tourist spot with many historic temples and shrines. Why not visit them together?
Head Temple “Shitennoji”
Located just a few minutes’ walk from Aizendo Shomanin, Shitennoji is the first official Buddhist temple in Japan, established by Prince Shotoku. The vast grounds feature a five-story pagoda and a Golden Hall. On the 21st and 22nd of every month, a flea market is held, bustling with food stalls and visitors. A standard course is to visit Shitennoji along with Aizendo to tour sites related to Prince Shotoku.
“Yasui Shrine”: The Place of Sanada Yukimura’s Demise
Also within walking distance is Yasui Shrine, known as the place where the samurai hero Sanada Yukimura (Nobushige) met his end during the Summer Siege of Osaka. The grounds contain a statue of Sanada Yukimura and a monument marking his death, making it a must-visit spot for history fans.
A Message from the Guide
The gap between the catchy appeal of matchmaking and the profound historical architecture is really great.
Comment