“Need one more bottle,” Kanbi Fujiyama might have said. That could also mean “it’s missing a stroke”. Welcome to Hozenji Temple. It is more than just a religious site. It is a place filled with stories and local lore.
Hozenji Temple moved to its current location in 1637. It belongs to the Jodo-shu sect. This sect emphasizes reciting “Namu Amida Butsu”. This is a path to rebirth in the Pure Land. Monks chanted prayers for 1000 days for the departed. This earned it the nickname Sennichi-ji.
Step closer to the Fudo Myo-o statue. Notice the thick moss. The statue stands tall. It is flanked by Seitaka-doshi and Kongara-doshi. Fudo Myo-o means “Immovable Lord of Light”. The moss wasn’t there originally. It grew after World War II.
The area around Hozenji Temple was destroyed. But the Fudo Myo-o statue survived. People started splashing water on it. Over time moss began to grow.
Look closely at the kanji sign for Hozenji Yokocho. Kanbi Fujiyama created it. One stroke is missing from the character for “zen”. Zen means good. Fujiyama admitted he was not such a good guy. He was known for his drinking.
Consider the alleyway itself Hozenji Yokocho. It is full of history. It is also full of dining options.
“Tsuki no Hozenji Yokocho” is a popular ballad. It tells the story of a young chef. He says farewell to his love. Her father runs the restaurant where he works. The song captures the spirit of Hozenji Yokocho. It is known for fine dining.
Notice the statue of Fudo Myo-o. People splash water on it and pray. It is said to fulfill all wishes. The two smaller statues answer prayers for love.
Feel the atmosphere. Hozenji Temple is open 24 hours. It is a place for everyone. People come to pray. They come to reflect. They come to experience a different side of Osaka.
Remember the stories of Hozenji Temple. The moss-covered statues are important. The missing stroke is significant. The alleyway has great food. It is all part of what makes Hozenji Temple so special.