Exploring the Ancient Temple of a Thousand Years｜Encounter Japan’s Earliest Shitennoji Temple

"Japan’s Earliest Shitennoji Temple" Transportation Guide

In 593 AD, Prince Shotoku founded Shitennoji, the oldest official temple in Japan, akin to Japan’s "Luoyang White Horse Temple," carrying a millennium of Buddhist heritage. Buddhism originated in India, passed through the Western Regions to China, and then crossed eastward to Fusang (Japan). As a major foreign trade hub, Osaka naturally became the first stop for the spread of Buddhism to Japan.

Through the passage of time, the temple endured wars, with many buildings destroyed. It was not until 1957 that the five-story pagoda and main hall were restored to the solemn grandeur of the Asuka period. Visitors must remove their shoes to climb the pagoda, but the view from the top may not be the main attraction—the act of ascending the wooden stairs with reverence feels more like a silent dialogue with a thousand years of history.

The temple features a semi-open design, with areas outside the core zone open for free visits. Strolling through, one can feel a strong sense of everyday life. Occasionally, local elders sit quietly in the courtyard, or children play on the stone steps, where the solemnity of Buddhism and the warmth of daily life coexist harmoniously. To closely admire the murals in the main hall and the Asuka period Buddhist statues, you can purchase a ticket to enter the main hall. The ticket price is affordable and considerate.

This ancient temple, witnessing the starting point of Japanese Buddhism, is not only a treasure of architectural art but also like an open history book, waiting for travelers to read the first chapter of Japan’s Buddhist heritage with their footsteps.

Travel Trip #IslandNation #Japan

Post by 夏天-1 | Jun 22, 2025