“Pass to Hell” is written on the visitor tickets here at Senko-ji. It’s recommended that you explore hell before moving on to paradise. Welcome to Senko-ji Temple in Osaka. This isn’t just any temple. It’s a theme park of heaven and hell.
Senko-ji offers visitors a glimpse into Buddhist hell. It also judges if your soul is in danger. Some might see it as a gimmick. It provides clear explanations. You’ll easily grasp Buddhist concepts of hell.
Prince Shotoku made a statue of Yakushinyorai. He built a small temple around it. That became Senko-ji. Hirano sprung up shortly after. Senko-ji played a big role in Hirano’s creation.
The temple has a hall dedicated to Yama. Yama is the Judge of the Afterlife. Buddhism spread through drawings and words. Using audio-visual equipment isn’t strange. It’s a natural progression.
The chief priest believes peace comes from the heart. Urban areas’ quietest place is often underground. That’s why the Home of Buddha is below ground. Many think they can only connect after death. Connecting while alive is important. The red thread love knot photo spot makes that connection visible. Share it on Instagram.
Experience Buddhist teachings while having fun. Don’t force zazen meditation or preaching.
Enter the door to hell by scanning the QR code. Stand in front of the entrance. Yama’s eyes glare into your soul. There’s an offertory box and a gong. Hit the gong and hell will appear. A horned demon appears. A video tells the story of hell’s terrors. You hear audio of tortured souls.
Beside the demon stands Datsue-ba. She is an old woman. She sits by the Sanzu River in the Buddhist underworld. Datsue-ba tortures souls crossing the river. She makes adult souls strip off clothes. If they have no clothes, she strips their skin instead.
Outside, poke your head into a rock. Hear the sound of Hell’s Cauldron.
Things look brighter at the photo spot. Sit and raise your hand. Look like you’re holding the red thread love knot. It binds you to Buddharupa.
Entering paradise involves going underground. Meditate in a tranquil space. Admire the stained-glass mandala. See the reclining Buddha made of glass. It’s lit by LED lights.
After meditation, you’ll see a small Shinto shrine. Then see the magnificent Ippon Fudoson statue. Mist creates a sea of clouds at its feet.
Senko-ji built the Jigoku-do in 1989. Many young people died due to bullying or other problems then.
In Hotoke no Kuni, meditate on the glass floor. You’re surrounded by 50 Buddha statues. Senko-ji offers unique souvenirs and classes for copying sutras. There are even smartphone games. It’s a unique place. The experience will stay with you long after.