“Have you seen the six ten thousand Jizo?” That’s what the locals whisper about Shinko-in. This temple hides a fascinating story. Shinko-in is a Buddhist temple in Osaka’s Tennoji Ward. It is a branch temple of Shitennoji Temple. The mountain name is Kodasan. The main deity is Amida Nyorai.
Shinko-in’s history stretches back to 594 AD. Prince Shotoku founded it. He dedicated it to Emperor Yomei. The temple was modeled after the Unjo-in. It served as Shitennoji Temple’s hospital. The temple’s principal image was called Indo-butsu.
Prince Shotoku is said to have carved and enshrined 60,000 stone Jizo statues here. This act gave rise to the name “60,000 Jizo.” The area is still known as 60,000 Town.
Shinko-in is also known as Zuiun-ji. It is the 24th temple on the Settsu Country Thirty-three Kannon Pilgrimage. This pilgrimage connects several temples in the Osaka region.
You can visit Shinko-in from 8 AM to 5 PM. You can receive a Goshuin temple stamp. You can find charms and ema votive tablets. The temple’s phone number is 06-6771-6145.
Shinko-in is easily accessible. It is a short walk from the Tanimachi Line Shitennoji-mae Yuhigaoka Station. The temple faces a main street. It is easy to find.
The temple is one of Shitennoji Temple’s branch temples. Its mountain name is Kodasan. Its temple name is Zuiun-ji. Shinko-in is affiliated with the Wazong sect. Prince Shotoku founded it in 594 AD.
Shinko-in enshrines Amitabha Tathagata as its main deity. The temple also houses Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva and Jizo Bodhisattva. Jizo Bodhisattva exists in sixty thousand forms.
Legends say Prince Shotoku dedicated the statues. He prayed for his father’s peace. This act connects Shinko-in to the area’s history.
Today Shinko-in provides a quiet escape. It is close to the bustling city. Visitors find solace in its ancient grounds. They admire the Jizo statues and the temple’s rich past. Shinko-in is a testament to Prince Shotoku’s legacy. It represents Osaka’s enduring Buddhist heritage.