Journey of the Heart: Tranquil Moments at Isshin-ji Temple in Osaka

#OsakaItinerary
Day 1
In the early morning, my journey began at the serene Isshin-ji Temple. This historic Buddhist temple, located in the Tennoji district, is a sacred place for locals to pray and remember their loved ones. Stepping inside, I was greeted by an atmosphere of solemnity and peace, where wooden structures, lush greenery, and the faint scent of incense blended into a harmonious scene. I paid my respects to the Bone Buddha inside the temple, a statue made from the ashes of devotees, carrying countless people's faith and wishes, bringing a sense of spiritual calm. Afterwards, I strolled through the garden among stone lanterns and moss, quietly feeling the passage of time and the beauty of nature. At noon, I visited a small teahouse near the temple and savored traditional wagashi and matcha, the lingering taste seeming to freeze time in this tranquil place. In the afternoon, I took the subway to the area around Tsutenkaku Tower, experiencing a completely different vibrant atmosphere and enjoying the lively local scenes of Osaka, ending a leisurely day.
Day 2
On the second day, I chose a more relaxed pace, starting my day at Tennoji Park. The fresh morning air and abundant greenery made me feel refreshed. I visited Tennoji Zoo to see various adorable animals, especially the penguins and orangutans, which brought a smile to my face. At noon, I returned near Isshin-ji Temple to participate in a special temple tea ceremony experience. In the temple’s tea room, I learned the basic etiquette of the Japanese tea ceremony and felt the philosophy and meaning behind it. In the afternoon, I walked to Shitennoji Temple, an ancient temple that complements Isshin-ji, showcasing the deep religious culture of Osaka. Finally, I sat quietly under the pagoda at Shitennoji, admiring the sunset glow, perfectly concluding my two-day itinerary.

Post by Angrybird11 | Mar 13, 2025