“Please Fudo-san make my wish come true!” This exclamation echoes through the air. Here at \u6cd5\u53b3\u5bfa\u6c34\u5b50\u5730\u8535\u5c0a, also known as Mizukake Fudo, people express their devotion in a unique way. This venerable temple offers a tranquil escape in Osaka’s bustling Namba district.
\u6cd5\u53b3\u5b3a\u6c34\u5b50\u5730\u8535\u5c0a is part of Hozenji Temple. Hozenji Temple was built in 1637. It pays homage to Fudo Myoo. Fudo Myoo is a guardian deity of Buddhism. Namba became a hub for entertainment during the 1600s. Kabuki and bunraku performances thrived. Hozenji Temple even hosted rakugo storytelling.
But the real draw of \u6cd5\u53b3\u5b3a\u6c34\u5b50\u5730\u8535\u5c0a is its Mizukake Fudo statue. Mizukake Fudo means “water-splashed Fudo.” Visitors splash water on the statue. This tradition is said to bring good luck. The statue is covered in moss. This moss is the result of countless wishes and prayers.
Interestingly the moss only started growing after World War II. A woman came to \u6cd5\u53b3\u5b3a\u6c34\u5b50\u5730\u8535\u5c0a to pray. She poured water on Fudo-san. Others followed her example.
Are you wondering how to pray here? Buy incense at the temple office. Light it. Place it in the incense burner. Then take a ladle. Pour water on the Mizukake Fudo statue. Some even clap their hands loudly while making their wish.
It is said that there are different benefits depending on where you splash. If you have an ailment, pour water on the corresponding body part of the statue. To help your business you should sprinkle water only on the statue. For marriage, sprinkle water on the statues of Kogara Doji and Seitaka Doji. These are the acolytes on either side of Fudo Myoo.
\u6cd5\u53b3\u5b3a\u6c34\u5b50\u5730\u8535\u5c0a is open 24 hours a day. This reflects the never-sleeping nature of Minami. The area is a major center of entertainment. Praying at the statue is popular.
Early evening offers the most picturesque views. The lanterns cast a warm glow across the area. The wet flagstones add to the atmosphere. Hozenji offers a stark contrast to Dotonbori’s bright lights.
So, as you stand before \u6cd5\u53b3\u5b3a\u6c34\u5b50\u5730\u8535\u5c0a, remember its history. Remember the countless prayers. Make your wish. Splash the statue. Perhaps good fortune will find you here, in this mossy oasis.