Mizukake Fudo: The Moss-Covered Guardian
The Mizukake Fudo is Hozenji’s best-known attraction. Visitors pray by pouring water over the statue of Fudo Myoo, a Buddhist deity associated with protection and spiritual strength.
As countless visitors have poured water over the statue throughout the years, its surface has gradually become covered with moss, creating its distinctive green appearance.
Despite being located in the heart of the bustling Minami entertainment district, the temple grounds have a quiet and intimate atmosphere. Visitors can take a moment to slow down, offer a prayer, and enjoy a peaceful corner of Osaka.
History of Hozenji Temple
Foundation and Relocation
Hozenji was originally founded in Kitayama Village in Uji District, Yamashiro Province, before being moved to its present location in 1637 (Kanei 14). One tradition connects the relocation with a story associated with Konpira Tenno.
Another account states that the temple was first moved from what is now Uehonmachi 8-chome in Tennoji Ward to its current site, after which sen-nichi nenbutsu memorial services began in 1644 (Kanei 21).
Reconstruction During the Edo Period
Hozenji has suffered repeated fires throughout its history. When the temple was destroyed by fire in 1828 (Bunsei 2), it was rebuilt under the direction of Choyo. Another fire destroyed the temple in 1852 (Kaei 5), and reconstruction was carried out by Yoyo in 1855 (Ansei 2).
Reconstruction After World War II
During the Osaka air raids of 1945, Hozenji was once again destroyed by fire. The statue of Mizukake Fudo Myoo, however, survived the flames.
During the postwar reconstruction, Hozenji established a connection with Choenji Temple, another Jodo Buddhist temple, which became a branch temple of Hozenji. The principal image of Amida Nyorai was moved to Choenji while plans were made to rebuild Hozenji’s main hall.
In 1960 (Showa 35), the Konpira-do Hall and priests’ quarters were rebuilt, marking another step in the restoration of the temple complex.
Hozenji Yokocho
Hozenji Yokocho is a narrow lane located just north of Hozenji Temple. It was once part of the temple grounds and was formerly known as Hozenji-ura and Hozenji Roji.
The lane became widely known in the early Showa period after appearing in the novels Meoto Zenzai and Hozenji Yokocho. The name Hozenji Yokocho gradually became established as the area’s official popular name.
Gas Explosion and Reconstruction
On September 9, 2002, a gas explosion occurred during demolition work at the former Nakaza Theater next to Hozenji Yokocho. The accident destroyed 19 businesses.
Because of building regulations, there were concerns that the traditional streetscape could not be rebuilt in its original form. With support from the surrounding community and others, however, businesses were able to reopen by March 2004.
Today, Hozenji Yokocho retains much of its retro atmosphere and is a popular destination lined with restaurants and other establishments. Its narrow stone-paved streets provide a distinctive glimpse of Osaka’s traditional entertainment culture.
Getting to Hozenji
Hozenji is conveniently located in central Osaka and is easy to visit while exploring Namba and the surrounding Minami area.
By Bus
The nearest bus stop is Ebisubashi on Osaka City Bus Route 73.
By Train
The nearest stations include Namba Station on the Osaka Metro Midosuji and Sennichimae Lines, as well as Osaka-Namba Station on the Kintetsu Namba Line and Hanshin Namba Line.
Because of its convenient location, Hozenji is an easy stop to include while sightseeing around Namba, Dotonbori, and Sennichimae.
Hozenji and Sennichimae
The name Sennichimae is said to have originated from Hozenji and the thousand-day Buddhist practice associated with the temple.
Today, Sennichimae is one of the major entertainment and commercial areas of Osaka’s Minami district. Visitors can enjoy a wide variety of shopping, restaurants, entertainment, and local Osaka cuisine.
Meoto Zenzai and Hozenji
Hozenji is also closely associated with the novel Meoto Zenzai. Published during the early Showa period, the novel helped introduce the name and atmosphere of Hozenji Yokocho to people throughout Japan.
Even today, visitors can find establishments in Hozenji Yokocho bearing the name Meoto Zenzai, attracting travelers who want to experience this part of Osaka’s literary and culinary culture.
A Quiet Historic Temple in the Heart of Osaka
Hozenji Temple is a historic temple in central Osaka, best known for the moss-covered Mizukake Fudo and the atmospheric streets of Hozenji Yokocho.
Having survived repeated fires and the devastation of World War II, the temple has continued its history together with the local community. Today, it remains a familiar symbol of the Sennichimae area.
For visitors, Hozenji offers an opportunity to step away from the busy streets of Namba, experience a moment of quiet reflection, and discover a different side of Osaka’s history and culture.