“Shitennoji”. The name echoes through time. It whispers tales of princes and carpenters. It sings of faith and resilience. Shitennoji Temple stands as a testament to Japan’s enduring spirit.
Prince Shotoku founded Shitennoji in 593. He sought to spread Buddhism throughout Japan. Imagine Osaka in the 6th century. Buddhism was not yet widespread. Prince Shotoku envisioned a temple. It would honor the Four Heavenly Kings. These kings guard the world from evil.
Shitennoji became the first Buddhist temple built by the state. The temple buildings burned down several times. But each time, they were rebuilt. The reconstructions reflect the original 6th-century design. The last major reconstruction took place in 1963.
Prince Shotoku invited three Korean carpenters. They came from Baekje. They brought knowledge and skills. These were essential for Shitennoji’s construction. One of the carpenters later founded Kongo Gumi. This company specialized in temple and shrine construction. Kongo Gumi was the world’s oldest company. It existed until 2004.
Shitennoji is also known as Arahaka-ji. Some call it Nanba-ji or Mitsu-ji. After World War II, Shitennoji became independent. It formed the Wa sect of Buddhism.
“Shitenno” refers to the Four Heavenly Kings. Prince Shotoku’s temple honored them. It featured four institutions. Each helped the Japanese people attain a higher level of civilization. This Shika-in included a Kyoden-in. It was an institution of religion and education. There was also a Hiden-in. This was a welfare institution. A Ryobyo-in served as a hospital. And a Seiyaku-in was a pharmacy. These provided essential care.
The garan is the complex inside the walls. It consists of seven buildings. Here you will find a five-story pagoda. There is also a main Golden Pavilion called Kondo. It houses an image of the Bodhisattva Kannon. A Kododo or Lecture Hall stands under a covered corridor.
The corridor leads to three gates. One is the Deva Gate or Niomon. It is also known as the chumon. Then you will find the Western Gate. Lastly the Eastern Gate. Surrounding the central complex is the Great South Gate. There is also a Great East Gate. To the west is the Great West Gate. It is also known as Gokuraku-mon.
West of Gokuraku-mon is a stone torii. It is imagined as the Eastern Gate to Sukhavati. This is the Pure Land of the West.
In the Kameido hall, see a 7th-century turtle-shaped stonework. It was used for state rituals with water. These objects resemble carvings at the Sakafuneishi ruins. These ruins are believed to be a ritual site for Empress Kogyoku. Today these stoneworks are still used for rituals. They commemorate ancestors. Sheets of wood with their names float on the water.
You can buy souvenirs of Shitennoji on the 21st of each month. This is a unique opportunity to take home a piece of this sacred place.
As you leave Shitennoji, reflect on its history. Consider its role in spreading Buddhism in Japan. Remember Prince Shotoku’s vision. This temple is more than just a building. It is a symbol of faith. It is a testament to resilience. It is a treasure of Osaka.